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 love making this dish when I want something hearty yet simple to prepare on busy weeknights.
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
- Step 1:
- 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).
- Step 2:
- Stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes, coating the chicken.
- Step 3:
- Add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Step 4:
- 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.
- Step 5:
- Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save Sharing this dish with my family always brings smiles and warm compliments around the table.
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), Wheat (macaroni). BBQ sauce may contain soy or gluten check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories 670, Total Fat 23 g, Carbohydrates 74 g, Protein 40 g (per serving)
Save This one-pot recipe balances smoky, sweet, and creamy flavors perfectly for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced small cook evenly and absorb the sauce well, but leftover cooked chicken can be used too.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide a great melt and flavor balance, though smoked cheddar adds extra depth.
- → How do I ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly?
Simmer the macaroni in the broth and milk mixture until al dente, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- → What enhances the smoky taste?
Smoked paprika in the seasoning and a smoky BBQ sauce contribute to the rich smoky undertones.
- → Are there good topping options?
Fresh parsley adds freshness while crispy fried onions or bread crumbs give a pleasant crunch.