Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, adding leftover or rotisserie chicken at the sauce stage works well. Simply stir it in with the BBQ sauce and honey to heat through.

What type of cheese works best for a creamy texture?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend smoothly, creating a rich and creamy sauce that complements the smoky BBQ flavors.

Absolutely! Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce to infuse some heat without overpowering the sweetness.

Using smoked cheddar or adding a pinch of chipotle powder enhances the smoky depth and complements the BBQ sauce nicely.

Chopped fresh parsley adds brightness, while crispy fried onions or bread crumbs introduce a satisfying crunch.

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 quickly became a family favorite after I first served it on a busy weeknight; the creamy texture and BBQ twist impressed everyone.

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

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.

Preparing this dish brings my family together, especially when everyone gathers around the table eager for seconds and shared stories.

Use spicy BBQ sauce or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick. Topping with crispy onions adds great crunch.

Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, cheese grater if shredding cheese fresh.

Per serving: 670 calories, 23 g total fat, 74 g carbohydrates, 40 g protein.

This honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese is the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, ideal for any occasion.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?: Yes, adding leftover or rotisserie chicken at the sauce stage works well. Simply stir it in with the BBQ sauce and honey to heat through.
→ What type of cheese works best for a creamy texture?: Sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend smoothly, creating a rich and creamy sauce that complements the smoky BBQ flavors.
→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?: Absolutely! Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce to infuse some heat without overpowering the sweetness.
→ How can I add more smokiness to this mac and cheese?: Using smoked cheddar or adding a pinch of chipotle powder enhances the smoky depth and complements the BBQ sauce nicely.
→ What are good topping options for extra texture?: Chopped fresh parsley adds brightness, while crispy fried onions or bread crumbs introduce a satisfying crunch.