Save A comforting, creamy mac and cheese loaded with tender BBQ chicken and a touch of honey for sweet, smoky flavor—all made in one pot for easy cleanup.
I first tried this recipe for a casual weeknight dinner after craving both BBQ and mac and cheese. The result was an instant family favorite and became one of our go-to comfort foods.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (your favorite style); 2 tbsp honey
- Pasta & Cheese: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni (uncooked); 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk; 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Topping (Optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup (25 g) crispy fried onions or bread crumbs
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until chicken is lightly browned (it does not need to be fully cooked through yet).
- Add Sauce:
- Stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes, coating the chicken.
- Cook Pasta:
- Add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save Whenever I make this, my kids crowd around the table waiting for that cheesy first scoop. It is always the dish we reach for on busy weeknights when comfort is needed fast.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, cheese, butter) and wheat (macaroni). BBQ sauce may contain soy or gluten—always check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 670 calories, 23 g total fat, 74 g carbohydrates, 40 g protein.
Save This easy recipe brings everyone to the table. The leftovers taste great reheated for lunch the next day!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short varieties like shells or rotini work well. Adjust cook time for different shapes.
- → Is rotisserie chicken suitable for this dish?
Absolutely. Add cooked chicken when you stir in the BBQ sauce for easy prep.
- → Which BBQ sauce style works best?
Any favorite BBQ sauce fits. Smoky, spicy, or sweet varieties each add distinctive flavor.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Use spicy BBQ sauce or blend in hot sauce or chipotle powder for extra heat.
- → Is there a dairy-free option?
Try dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives, though texture and taste may vary.
- → How do I achieve extra crunch?
Top with crispy fried onions or bread crumbs just before serving for a satisfying crunch.