Crock Pot BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese is made with chicken breasts, mini penne, evaporated milk, mozzarella, smoked Cheddar, cream cheese, and BBQ rub. This recipe creates a creamy, smoky, and cheesy comfort food dish. It takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to prepare and serves 10 cups.

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese Ingredients

• 1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons Loot N’ Booty BBQ Everything Rub
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cans (12 ounces each) evaporated milk
• 1 box (16 ounces) mini penne
• 1 package (8 ounces) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 package (8 ounces) smoked Cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ (8-ounce) package cream cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup Burnt Finger Smokey Kansas City BBQ sauce (optional)

How To Make Crock Pot BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of BBQ Everything Rub.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently until browned.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned chicken into the slow cooker.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in all remaining ingredients except green onions and BBQ sauce.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and pasta is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Serve garnished with green onions and a drizzle of BBQ sauce, if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Stir Occasionally: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Use Pre-Shredded Cheese: Saves time and melts well in the slow cooker.
• Customize Toppings: Try crispy onions, cornbread crumbs, or kale chips for extra texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a kick.
• Plan Ahead: Use a timer if you need to delay cooking—never more than 2 hours.

What To Serve With BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese

This hearty dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For drinks, serve with sweet tea or a smoky bourbon cocktail.

How To Store BBQ Chicken and Mac and Cheese

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Mac and Cheese Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 751
• Total Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 41g
• Sodium: 880mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, elbow macaroni or shells work well as substitutes.

Do I need to cook the pasta first?
No, it cooks right in the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and BBQ rub, and add roasted vegetables instead.

What if I don’t have BBQ rub?
Use a mix of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Will the cheese curdle in the slow cooker?
No, as long as it’s stirred occasionally and cooked on high as directed.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot 40‑Clove Garlic Chicken
• Crock Pot Almond Chicken
• Crock Pot Apple Cider Chicken