Classic Mac Cheese BBQ Chicken

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

This recipe quickly became a family favorite because it's hearty and satisfying, yet easy to make ahead for busy weeknights.

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

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

Prep the oven and baking dish:

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

Cook the pasta:

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

Prepare 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 and 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 while whisking until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.

Assemble the casserole:

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

Add topping:

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.

Save

We love serving this on Sunday evenings, especially after a day outside. Everyone gathers around the table for second helpings.

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). Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 610 calories, 27 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein

Save

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

This BBQ mac & cheese is guaranteed to become a regular request in your home. Make extra because leftovers are just as delicious!

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be substituted for a quicker preparation while maintaining the smoky flavor when combined with barbecue sauce.

→ What cheeses are best for the sauce?

A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce with a balanced texture.

→ How can I make the topping extra crispy?

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling and baking to achieve a golden, crispy topping.

→ Is smoked paprika essential in this dish?

Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but can be omitted or substituted with regular paprika based on preference.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provide a fresh contrast that balances the richness of the main dish.