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 made this on a busy weeknight when my family craved something hearty but I didn&t want a pile of dishes. The mix of BBQ sauce and honey brought a new twist to our usual mac and cheese and it&s become a favorite ever since.
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
- Sear 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.
- Add Pasta & Liquids:
- Add the uncooked macaroni chicken broth and milk. Stir to combine ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Cook the Pasta:
- 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 & Finish:
- Stir in butter cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe is now a staple at our family game nights. Watching everyone gather around for second helpings reminds me why I love simple dinners that bring people together.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven wooden spoon or spatula measuring cups and spoons and a cheese grater make prep and cooking a breeze.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (milk cheese butter) and wheat (macaroni). BBQ sauce may also contain soy or gluten so always double-check your ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 670 calories 23 g total fat 74 g carbohydrates and 40 g protein to keep you satisfied and fueled.
Save Serve straight from the pot topped with extra crispy onions if you like for extra comfort. Leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes, adding pre-cooked rotisserie chicken at step 2 saves time and still blends beautifully with the sauce and cheese.
- → What type of cheeses work best in this dish?
Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch. Using both creates a balanced, smooth texture.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Use spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before simmering for an extra kick.
- → Is smoked paprika essential for flavor?
Smoked paprika enhances the smoky depth but can be substituted with regular paprika or chipotle powder for different heat levels.
- → What can I use to garnish for extra texture?
Chopped fresh parsley adds freshness, while crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs contribute a satisfying crunch on top.