Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a bold, comforting dinner mash-up that brings together smoky pulled chicken, creamy homemade cheese sauce, and tender elbow pasta—all baked to bubbling perfection. It’s perfect for easy weeknights, meal prep, or those cozy nights when only loaded mac will do!

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese Base:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

For the BBQ Chicken:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)

Optional Toppings:

  • Extra shredded cheese for the top

  • Crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13″ baking dish.

  2. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

  4. Gradually whisk in milk. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until thickened.

  5. Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheeses until completely melted and smooth.

  6. In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated.

  7. Combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and BBQ chicken in a large mixing bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.

  8. Pour into the prepared baking dish and top with more cheese or crispy toppings if desired.

  9. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes if you want a crispier top!

  10. Let cool slightly, garnish if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to make this extra quick!

  • Go wild with the cheese—pepper jack, smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack are all amazing swaps.

  • Prefer stovetop? Skip the baking step and serve it straight from the pan.

  • Great for meal prep—just portion and reheat with a splash of milk.

  • For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder or drizzle with smoky BBQ sauce.

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese