Classic Mac Cheese BBQ Chicken

A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.

I first made this classic mac & cheese with BBQ chicken on a weekend when I wanted something hearty yet easy. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tangy barbecue chicken was an instant crowd-pleaser at our table.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
• Cheese Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 700 ml (3 cups) whole milk, 200 g (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 80 g (3/4 cup) mozzarella cheese shredded, 60 g (1/2 cup) Parmesan cheese grated, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional), 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
• BBQ Chicken: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 150 ml (2/3 cup) barbecue sauce
• Topping: 50 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter, 30 g (1/4 cup) cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

Prep the Baking Dish:

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.

Cook the Macaroni:

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the BBQ Chicken:

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6 7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred with two forks. Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).

Add the Cheeses:

Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Combine Mac & Cheese:

Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into prepared baking dish. Evenly top with BBQ chicken.

Add Toppings:

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top, followed by extra cheddar.

Bake:

Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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This recipe quickly became a staple at our family gatherings, with everyone asking for seconds. Sharing this dish always brings back memories of laughter around the dinner table.

Allergen and Nutrition Information

Contains milk (dairy) and wheat (gluten) double-check for eggs or soy in your pasta or BBQ sauce. Each serving provides about 610 calories, 27 g fat, 59 g carbohydrates, and 36 g protein.

Customization Ideas

Try adding sautéed onions, jalapeños, or switching up the cheeses for different flavor combinations. Use your favorite BBQ sauce style: smoky, spicy, or sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this main dish with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. Leftovers reheat well for lunches the next day.

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A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce can add a perfect final touch. Enjoy this comforting casserole with loved ones any night of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and bakes evenly in this dish.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, substituting or adding cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack can adjust the flavor while maintaining creaminess.

→ How should the chicken be prepared?

Cook chicken breasts seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then shred and toss with barbecue sauce for smoky flavor.

→ Is there a way to make it spicier?

Adding ingredients like jalapeños or a spicier barbecue sauce can enhance heat without overpowering the dish.

→ How do I achieve a crispy topping?

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking to create a golden, crunchy finish.