Honey BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese (Printable)

Tender BBQ chicken and cheesy macaroni combine for a comforting one-pot meal with a touch of sweet honey.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Sauce

06 - 1 cup BBQ sauce
07 - 2 tablespoons honey

→ Pasta & Cheese

08 - 12 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
09 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
10 - 1 cup whole milk
11 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
12 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Topping (Optional)

14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 - 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or bread crumbs

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until chicken is lightly browned.
02 - Stir in BBQ sauce and honey, coating chicken evenly. Cook for 2 minutes.
03 - Combine uncooked elbow macaroni, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir well, ensuring pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
05 - Stir in unsalted butter, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Remove pan from heat.
07 - Top with chopped fresh parsley and crispy fried onions or bread crumbs if preferred. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal for easy cleanup
  • Simple to follow recipe, even for beginners
  • Hearty and satisfying comfort food
02 -
  • For extra smokiness, use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of chipotle powder.
  • Substitute rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken—add at step 2.
  • For a spicier kick, use spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce.
03 -
  • Ensure macaroni is submerged in liquid for even cooking.
  • Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving for perfect flavor.
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