BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese – The Ultimate Lazy Dinner Recipe

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a comforting, no-fuss dinner that tastes like pure joy?

Some days call for slow cooking and careful plating—but other days, you just want something hearty, cheesy, and wildly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese comes in. This recipe is the definition of a lazy dinner done right: familiar ingredients, bold flavors, and a cozy, crowd-pleasing result that feels indulgent without being complicated. 🧀🍗

Mac and cheese has long been a staple of home kitchens, loved for its creamy texture and comforting simplicity. Add barbecue chicken to the mix, and suddenly you have a dish that bridges classic comfort food with smoky, savory flair. The sweetness of BBQ sauce, the tenderness of shredded chicken, and the richness of melted cheese all come together in a way that feels generous and deeply satisfying.

This recipe is especially perfect for busy weeknights, leftover rotisserie chicken, or those evenings when motivation is low but hunger is high. It’s forgiving, flexible, and welcoming—exactly what traditional home cooking should be. You can bake it until bubbly or keep it stovetop-simple. Either way, the result is warm, filling, and guaranteed to please kids and adults alike.

So grab your biggest pot, turn on some music, and let’s make a meal that feels like comfort with a little smoky attitude. This is the kind of dinner that doesn’t ask much of you—but gives back in every cheesy, saucy bite. 😌🔥

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or shells, cavatappi)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced 🍗
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the BBQ Flavor:

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (smoky or sweet, your choice)
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish 🌿

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot or a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheeses until fully melted and creamy.
7. Add the cooked chicken and BBQ sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated and warmed through.
8. Fold in the cooked macaroni, stirring gently until everything is evenly combined.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Serve immediately for a stovetop version, or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly on top.

Nutritional Information

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a hearty, energy-rich meal that delivers protein from chicken, calcium from cheese, and comforting carbohydrates from pasta. While it’s an indulgent dish, it’s perfect for refueling after a long day and satisfying big appetites. Enjoy it as a main dish with a simple side salad for balance. 🥗🍽️

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 20 minutes (optional)
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~520
🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!