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.
This recipe became a weeknight favorite at our house: it is quick to put together and always hits the spot with its rich, cheesy goodness and BBQ tang.
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
- Cook 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.
- Make creamy:
- Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Adjust and serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids love sprinkling crispy onions on top and mixing it in for a fun crunch with each bite: it's always a dinner that brings everyone to 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 have soy or gluten; always double-check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 670, Total Fat: 23 g, Carbohydrates: 74 g, Protein: 40 g
Save Enjoy this easy one-pot meal hot from the stove—comfort food with a sweet, smoky twist every time!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken can be added after the BBQ sauce step to save time while keeping flavor.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds sauces well and cooks evenly within the one-pot method.
- → How do I achieve a smoky flavor without BBQ sauce?
Incorporate smoked paprika or smoked cheddar cheese to enhance smokiness naturally.
- → Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey to maintain the sweet balance in the sauce.
- → What is the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stir occasionally and ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth and milk mixture as it simmers.