As I pulled the lid off my trusty crockpot, a wave of savory aromas filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to the happiest of mealtimes. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, a dish that beautifully marries creamy comfort with the bold flavors of BBQ chicken. This masterpiece is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing you to serve a satisfying meal without hours of cooking. You can easily whip it up in one pot, making it the perfect solution for family dinners or casual gatherings. Ready to indulge in a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky tang? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a favorite around your dinner table!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Ease of Preparation: The Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about simplicity. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you’ll be able to create a delightful meal with no fuss.

Family Favorite: The combination of creamy cheese and tangy BBQ chicken ensures this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: Every bite is packed with rich flavors, thanks to the slow-cooking method that melds the ingredients beautifully.

Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch up the proteins or cheeses to suit your taste. Try it with shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian version!

Time Saver: With hands-off cooking and the convenience of a crockpot, you can enjoy more quality time with your loved ones while your meal simmers away!

Don’t forget to check out additional comforting recipes like Ham Egg Cheese Roll-Ups or Buffalo Chicken Crescent Ring for more crowd-pleasing options!

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – serves as the perfect base, but feel free to swap it out for any short pasta like shells or rigatoni!

For the Chicken
• Shredded Chicken – brings protein and flavor; you can replace it with shredded turkey or plant-based beans for a delightful vegetarian twist.

For the BBQ Flavor
• Barbecue Sauce – adds that signature tanginess; choose your favorite store-bought brand or make homemade for a personalized touch.
• Garlic Powder – enhances the dish’s overall flavor; fresh garlic can also be included if you prefer a more robust taste.
• Onion Powder – adds savory notes; sautéed fresh onions can replace it for an aromatic addition.

For Creaminess
• Cream Cheese – provides richness and creaminess; for a lighter option, try substituting with sour cream.
• Milk – contributes to the overall creamy texture; you can also opt for non-dairy milk if desired.

For Seasoning
• Black Pepper and Salt – essential for balancing flavors; adjust these according to your taste preferences.

For the Topping
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – gives that gooey, cheesy topping; don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheese varieties to discover delicious new flavors!

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a fantastic Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that’s bound to impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by greasing the interior of your crockpot with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. This will help keep your delicious Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from clinging to the sides. Set the crockpot aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni well and set it aside to cool slightly. This step helps ensure the pasta maintains its texture once combined with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the greased crockpot, add the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cream cheese, and milk. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, creating a creamy, flavorful mixture that captures the essence of the Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese
Gently fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, ensuring it distributes evenly throughout. Reserve the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese for later. The cheese will enhance the creaminess and pipe up the cheesy goodness of your dish once cooked.

Step 5: Cook on Low Heat
Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. As the dish heats up, the flavors meld beautifully, and the cheese melts, creating a comforting consistency for your BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Step 6: Add Topping Cheese
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, remove the lid and sprinkle the reserved 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the crockpot again, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey topping, enhancing the flavors just before serving.

Step 7: Stir and Garnish
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the mixture a good stir to incorporate the melted cheese into the mac and cheese. Serve hot, garnishing with extra barbecue sauce or fresh herbs if desired for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your heartwarming Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator overnight, ensuring everything is well mixed to avoid any separation. If you’re looking to save even more time, you can cook the macaroni ahead of time, refrigerate it, and toss it in when you’re ready to combine all components. To maintain quality, make sure you cover the crockpot tightly while storing. When you’re ready to serve, cook the mixture on low for 2 to 3 hours and add the reserved cheese about 15 minutes before enjoying your delicious, creamy comfort dish!

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Fridge: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for storage. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry for a creamy texture.

Serving Freshness: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese freshly made, but don’t hesitate to savor the leftovers!

What to Serve with Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the rich, creamy flavors of this beloved dish.

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side that offers the perfect contrast to the creamy mac and cheese goodness. Your guests will love dipping it into the cheesy sauce!
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness and bring a refreshing balance to your plate. Adding colorful veggies makes it visually appealing too!
Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy slaw adds texture and brightness, enhancing the smoky BBQ flavor and offering a great contrast to the warmth of the mac and cheese.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots and bell peppers introduce a lovely sweetness and caramelization that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the dish. Plus, they provide a healthy component!
Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie adds a classic touch and finishes the meal on a sweet note, making everyone feel satisfied and joyful.
Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweetened iced tea will keep you refreshed while enjoying your meal. Its subtle sweetness works harmoniously with the smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken.
Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread brings a delightful texture and enhances the comfort food vibe of the mac and cheese, creating a new level of satisfaction at your dinner table.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists and swaps to make this comforting dish uniquely yours!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace shredded chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a hearty, meat-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. You’d be surprised how delicious plant-based protein can be!
Cheesy Overload: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella for stretch and pepper jack for a spicy kick. This adds extra gooeyness and excitement to your mac and cheese.
Gluten-Free Swap: Opt for gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without worry. It’s just as creamy and comforting, making it a great choice for everyone at the table!
Pasta Shape Twist: Try swapping out elbow macaroni for unique pasta shapes like cavatappi or fusilli. This change not only alters the texture experience but also makes every bite a little different.
Extra Flavor Boost: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers for some extra crunch and flavor. These veggies bring a wonderful sweetness and depth that complements the dish beautifully.
Smoky Infusion: Mix in some smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ. Just a pinch can elevate your meal to the next level!
Creamy Touch: For a changed-up creaminess, use ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese. It provides a delightful richness, making each serving indulgently creamy.

Don’t forget to check out other comforting recipes like Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl and Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for more variety on your dinner table!

Expert Tips for Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy while slow-cooking in the crockpot.
Grease Well: Don’t skip the greasing step! Properly greasing the crockpot prevents your delicious Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally during the cooking process helps to evenly distribute the flavors and prevent any sticking or burning on the sides.
Adjust BBQ Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to suit your taste. A little extra can add more tang, but too much can make the dish soupy.
Slow Heat for Best Results: Cooking on low for 2 to 3 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that rich, comforting flavor you expect from a great mac and cheese.

Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta should I use for the Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for mac and cheese, you can easily substitute it with other short pasta shapes like shells or rigatoni. Each type offers a unique texture and mouthfeel, so feel free to experiment based on your personal preference.

How do I store leftovers of the Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
To store leftovers, allow your dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently to maintain the creamy texture!

Can I freeze Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! After letting the dish cool, portion it into airtight containers and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

I find my mac and cheese a bit watery. What should I do?
If you find your Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is too watery, don’t worry! Simply remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. This will help thicken the sauce and enhance the overall texture of the dish.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free pasta, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if you’re looking to accommodate different diets, you can substitute chicken with shredded turkey or even beans for a delicious vegetarian option. Just be mindful of using gluten-free BBQ sauce as well.

What can I do if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, there’s no need to fret! You can substitute it with sour cream, which will still provide a lovely creaminess. For a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt is another fabulous alternative that adds a nice tang to your Crockpot BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese!