Save A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
This recipe became a staple after a busy weeknight when I wanted something both hearty and easy to assemble. The combination of tangy barbecue chicken with classic mac and cheese was an instant hit at my kitchen table.
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
- Prepare Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the 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; set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- 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).
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Assemble 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 & Serve:
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when this dish hits the table. It brings our family together for a cozy dinner, and leftovers never last long.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish, 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 labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 610, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 36 g
Save This mac and cheese with barbecue chicken is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation. Simple, comforting, and delicious every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is preferred for its shape and ability to hold the cheese sauce well.
- → Can I use other cheeses in the sauce?
Yes, adding different sharp cheeses like gouda or fontina can enhance the flavor profile.
- → How do I achieve a smoky flavor in the chicken?
Season chicken with smoked paprika and use a smoky barbecue sauce for an authentic taste.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables offer a nice balance to the richness.