Imagine tender bites of seasoned chicken smothered in a smoky, creamy chipotle ranch sauce, nestled on a bed of white cheddar mac. It’s the ultimate comfort food—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite. This dish brings together the richness of white cheddar mac and the bold zest of BBQ chipotle ranch in a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving up something unforgettable for your next gathering, BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s an easy dinner idea that tastes like a restaurant-quality indulgence, blending hearty proteins, creamy pasta, and irresistible spice. Comfort food cravings? Consider them handled.

Ingredients for this BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac

2 cups dry elbow macaroni
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1/4 cup BBQ sauce (smoky-style preferred)
2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the White Cheddar Sauce

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in the milk (or heavy cream) and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly add in the shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Mix in the BBQ Chipotle Ranch

Once the cheese is fully melted, stir in the BBQ sauce, chopped chipotle peppers, and ranch dressing. Mix well until the sauce turns a creamy orange and is evenly blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and the sautéed chicken into the sauce. Gently fold everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated with the smoky, spicy, creamy cheese sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac into bowls or serve family-style. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish. Enjoy immediately while warm and melty!

Storage Instructions

To keep your BBQ Chipotle Ranch Chicken & White Cheddar Mac tasting fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen, though the cheese sauce may slightly change texture. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. Add a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 820mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta shape works best for this dish?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi, rotini, or shells also hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of milk for best results.

How spicy is the chipotle flavor?

It has a mild to medium heat. You can add more or less chipotle depending on your spice preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken or grilled leftovers work great and save time.

Is there a substitute for white cheddar?

Sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack all work well as creamy alternatives.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the chicken and consider adding roasted veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.

What BBQ sauce is best?

A smoky or honey BBQ sauce balances the chipotle ranch flavors beautifully.

How can I make this healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, light ranch, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version.