Honey BBQ Chicken Mac Cheese

One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the creamy indulgence of classic mac and cheese with the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken and a hint of honey. This American comfort food favorite offers tender chicken infused with rich BBQ flavors, perfectly melted cheeses, and pasta cooked all in one pot for convenience and maximum flavor. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight fix, this dish delivers satisfying warmth with minimal cleanup.

Pin it

This dish is an ideal weeknight meal that feels indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen. The combination of smoky paprika, sweet honey, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a dynamic flavor profile that pairs perfectly with classic macaroni and cheese. Finished with optional crispy onions and fresh parsley, it offers delightful texture and color.

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

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).

2. Stir in BBQ sauce and honey.

Cook for 2 minutes, coating the chicken.

3. Add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk.

Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.

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.

5. Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses.

Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Remove from heat.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired.

Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of chipotle powder to enhance smokiness. Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken can be substituted and added at step 2. For more heat, opt for spicy BBQ sauce or include a dash of hot sauce. Adding crispy fried onions as a topping creates a satisfying crunchy texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Swap elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes if desired. Experiment with different BBQ sauce styles such as sweet, smoky, or spicy to tailor the flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives, but note that the resulting texture and taste will vary.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this mac and cheese hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crispy onions or breadcrumbs on top for added crunch and color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Leftovers reheat well for a quick lunch or dinner.

Pin it

With easy steps and comforting results, this One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Its perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and cheesy flavors brings warmth to any dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes, you can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken by adding it after coating with BBQ sauce and honey, saving cooking time.

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

A sharp cheddar combined with mozzarella offers a creamy texture and balanced flavor, but smoked cheddar adds extra smokiness.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely. Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle powder for a spicy kick.

→ How do I ensure the macaroni cooks properly?

Simmer the uncooked elbow macaroni in chicken broth and milk until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

→ What toppings complement this chicken mac and cheese?

Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, while crispy fried onions or bread crumbs provide a delightful crunchy texture.