Save A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
This classic mac & cheese with BBQ chicken quickly became a family favorite at our dinner table for its rich flavors and easy preparation.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- For 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).
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Step 6:
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into prepared baking dish. Evenly top with BBQ chicken.
- Step 7:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top, followed by extra cheddar.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save My family loves gathering around this dish especially on busy weekends, turning dinner into a cozy moment filled with smiles and laughter.
Required Tools
Large pot, Skillet, Saucepan, Baking dish (9x13-inch), Whisk, Mixing bowls
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (dairy), Wheat (gluten). May contain Eggs (if using certain pasta), soy (if present in BBQ sauce or cheese). Double-check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 610, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 36 g per serving
Save This dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table and may quickly become your go-to comfort food.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding creamy sauces and baking evenly, but other small pasta shapes like shells or penne can also work.
- → Can I substitute different cheeses?
Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a balanced melt and flavor, but feel free to add Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variety.
- → How do I make the chicken smoky and flavorful?
Season the chicken with smoked paprika and salt, then toss with barbecue sauce after cooking for a rich, smoky taste.
- → What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking; this ensures a golden, crunchy finish.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking and store in the fridge; just increase baking time slightly if baking chilled.