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 Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese on a chilly weeknight and was so happy to see the pan emptied in minutes. It combines everything my family adores: cheesy pasta, BBQ chicken, and just enough sweetness from the honey to make each bite special.
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
- Sauté 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 & Liquid:
- 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 & Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids always request this dish, especially after soccer practice. The leftovers (if any) disappear the next day at lunch. Sharing comfort food like this around our table feels extra cozy.
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. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 670, Total Fat 23 g, Carbohydrates 74 g, Protein 40 g
Save This mac and cheese is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy creamy comfort in every bite!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, substitute rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken by adding it after coating with BBQ sauce and honey, skipping early sautéing.
- → What types of cheese work best?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide a creamy, melty texture, but smoked cheddar can add extra depth and smokiness.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the pasta?
Simmer covered on medium-low heat and stir occasionally, cooking until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness and spice levels?
Yes, increase honey for sweetness or use spicy BBQ sauce and add hot sauce or chipotle powder for heat.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish?
Fresh parsley adds brightness and crispy fried onions or bread crumbs provide crunchy texture contrast.