Go Back
Creamy BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese features tender chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and a rich cheese sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Heaven

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food mashup with this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy macaroni is combined with tender, smoky BBQ chicken and crispy bacon for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large saucepan
  • whisk
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet (for bacon)
  • Oven (optional)
  • Baking dish (optional)
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. If using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. If cooking your own chicken, ensure it's fully cooked and shredded. Toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and set aside.
  4. Cook bacon until crispy. Let cool slightly, then crumble into small pieces.
  5. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
  7. Reduce heat to low and add cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Add cooked macaroni and BBQ chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
  10. Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
  11. If baking, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
  12. Sprinkle remaining bacon and chopped green onions (if using) over the mac and cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra creamy sauce, use whole milk and grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent smooth melting. Do not overcook the cheese sauce; cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth. Soften the cream cheese before adding to the sauce to ensure seamless blending. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or substitute the chicken with black beans for a vegetarian option.