I’m so happy to share my BBQ Chicken Cornbread Muffins recipe with you. These little muffins are warm, soft, and filled with sweet and smoky chicken that makes every bite fun. They use only a few simple ingredients, and they bake in a short amount of time, so they are perfect for busy days. I love how the cheesy chicken mixture sits inside the cornbread, it feels like a tiny meal in one bite. These are great for kids, parties, or quick dinners.
Level: Easy
Total Time: about 25 to 30 minutes
Prep Time: about 5 minutes
Cook Time: about 15 to 18 minutes
Yield: about 12 muffins
Course: Main Dish or Snack
Cuisine: American
I still remember the first time I tried mixing chicken and cornbread because it made the kitchen smell so warm and inviting. These muffins are soft on the outside, full of sweet and smoky BBQ flavor on the inside, and the melted cheese makes them extra comforting. They look simple, but the mix of cornbread and chicken makes them feel special.
This recipe comes together fast, so it works well for weeknights, lunch boxes, or even as a fun snack for a game night. You only need a few minutes to mix everything, then the oven does the rest of the work. The chicken filling keeps the muffins moist, and the BBQ sauce adds a nice kick without being too strong.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Cornbread Muffins
These muffins blend soft cornbread with a sweet and smoky chicken filling that makes each bite warm and satisfying. Here is how everything fits together:
• Mix your cornbread batter in a bowl
• Spoon the batter into a muffin pan so each cup is half full
• Stir cooked chicken, cheese, and BBQ sauce together
• Add the chicken mixture on top of the batter
• Bake until the tops are golden and the muffins feel firm
• Add more BBQ sauce on top if you like extra flavor
This is a simple recipe that gives you tasty muffins with very little prep work.
Ingredients
• 2 packages Martha White Buttermilk Cornbread Mix, 6 ounces each
• 1⅓ cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
• ¾ cup BBQ sauce
Directions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Warm your oven to 400 degrees F.
- Lightly coat a 12 cup muffin pan with cooking spray so the muffins release easily.
- Make the Cornbread Batter:
- Stir the cornbread mix and milk together in a bowl until the batter looks smooth.
- Scoop the batter into each muffin cup until it is about halfway full.
- Mix the Chicken Filling:
- Combine the cheddar cheese, chopped chicken, and BBQ sauce in a separate bowl.
- Stir until all the chicken is coated with sauce.
- Add Filling to the Muffins:
- Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture over each half filled muffin cup.
- Make sure the filling sits in the center so it bakes nicely inside.
- Bake the Muffins:
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes.
- The muffins should look golden and the tops should feel firm when gently pressed.
- Serve Warm:
- Add a little extra BBQ sauce on top if you like stronger flavor.
- Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them from the pan.
Process Details
• Even Mixing: Stirring the cornbread batter until smooth helps the muffins rise evenly.
• Moist Filling: The BBQ sauce keeps the chicken soft so the inside does not dry out.
• Balanced Bites: Filling each muffin half way makes room for the chicken without spilling.
• Golden Tops: Baking until the tops look lightly browned gives the muffins a soft inside and a gentle crust outside.
Tips for Success
• Use cooked chicken that is chopped into small pieces so it mixes well with the sauce.
• Pick a BBQ sauce you already enjoy because it gives most of the flavor.
• Try using a little extra cheese if you want a creamier center.
• Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before lifting them out so they stay together.
• You can use silicone muffin cups if you want easier cleanup.
Serving Ideas
• Serve warm muffins with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
• Add a small side salad or steamed veggies to make it a simple meal.
• Pack them in lunch boxes for an easy grab and go option.
• Bring them to parties or picnics as a fun finger food.
• Pair them with baked beans or coleslaw for a classic BBQ style plate.
Storage & Freezing
• Refrigerator: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled muffins in a sealed bag for about 1 month.
• Reheating: Warm muffins in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Texture Note: The cornbread may soften a little after storing, but the flavor stays tasty.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving)
• Calories: ~260
• Protein: ~12g
• Carbohydrates: ~24g
• Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sodium: ~420mg
• Sugar: ~8g
BBQ Chicken Cornbread Muffins are warm, cheesy, and full of sweet and smoky flavor that makes them easy to enjoy any day of the week. They bake quickly, use simple ingredients, and give you a complete bite of chicken and cornbread in one little package.
I hope you have fun making these muffins and enjoy sharing them with family or friends. Once you taste how simple and tasty they are, you may find yourself making them again soon.
