Name: Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup of BBQ sauce; 8 oz of elbow macaroni; 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup of milk; 1 tablespoon of butter; 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Dinner

Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Home

Dinner

Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

July 5, 2025

Author : Megan C

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Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re searching for a meal that perfectly marries the smoky-sweet flavors of BBQ chicken with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of mac and cheese, your quest ends here. Our **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Ideal for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or simply those moments when you crave a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. Each bite is an explosion of taste, boasting melty cheese, tender, flavorful chicken, and a generous drizzle of tangy BBQ sauce. Prepare yourself for a dish that will have everyone begging for seconds!

Served plate of BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese garnished with parsley, showcasing the comfort food in a warm setting.

2. Gather Your Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese**:

2 cups of shredded cooked chicken – rotisserie chicken works great! For other chicken recipes, check this link.
1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce – we recommend a smoky or tangy variety.
8 oz of elbow macaroni – feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes.
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – a sharp cheddar provides the best flavor.
1 cup of milk – whole milk creates the creamiest sauce.
1 tablespoon of butter – unsalted butter is preferred.
1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs – these add a delightful crunch.
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder – for an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – season generously!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Best BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Shredded BBQ Chicken for Mac and Cheese

Begin by shredding the cooked chicken. Then, in a bowl, mix the shredded chicken thoroughly with the BBQ sauce, ensuring every strand is coated evenly. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that signature smoky, tangy BBQ flavor, a key component in our delightful **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese**. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes to absorb the sauce.

Delicious shredded BBQ chicken simmering in sauce for shredding BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni and Create the Cheesy Base for BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta completely and return it to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously over low heat until everything is melted and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Now, gently fold in the BBQ chicken mixture, ensuring an even distribution throughout the pasta. This creates the delectable and flavorful **BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** foundation.

Macaroni and cheese blended with shredded BBQ chicken for a rich BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese dish.

Step 3: Assemble and Layer Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish to prevent sticking. Pour the **BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. For an extra layer of texture and flavor, combine the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese. This layering is key to achieving that irresistible texture contrast that makes this **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** so special!

Layering BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in a casserole dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection and Serve Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are toasted. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing a messy serving experience. Now, gather your friends and family and enjoy your delicious, homemade **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese**! Consider trying other dinner recipes, like this Taco Lasagna. You can also visit Sailor Bailey’s blog for more BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese inspiration.

Bubbling BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese casserole fresh from the oven, ready to be served.

4. Storage Tips for Your Leftover BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. To restore the creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating. You might like this other recipe, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

5. Serving Suggestions: Elevating Your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Experience

This versatile **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a crisp side salad or creamy coleslaw for a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the mac and cheese. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with freshly chopped green onions, a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults – a true family favorite! If you like chicken recipes, you’ll like chicken bread recipe.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

What type of cheese is the best choice for making BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?

While cheddar cheese is the classic and most popular choice due to its creamy texture and sharp flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can add different dimensions and richness to your **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese**.

Can I use pre-cooked BBQ chicken from the store to speed up the recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought BBQ chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed. This makes **BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** an easy weeknight meal!

Is it possible to prepare BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance?

Yes, you can definitely assemble the casserole ahead of time. Prepare the **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** according to the instructions, but don’t bake it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary to ensure it’s heated through. You can have another recipe that you might like, Tomato Pasta.

7. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Our **Shredded BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese** recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and comfort, making it a truly irresistible meal. With its easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you can effortlessly create a dish that will quickly become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and prepare to enjoy the explosion of delicious BBQ flavor in every single bite! For a healthy snack, you can check this other recipe, Chili Roasted Chickpeas.