What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tender bites. Diced pieces cook quickly and blend well with the creamy base.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella combine well for creaminess and flavor, but smoked cheddar or gouda can add a smokier depth to the dish.

While BBQ sauce provides signature sweetness and smokiness, substituting with tomato sauce and spices can create a different but tasty variation.

Cook the macaroni to al dente by simmering with careful stirring and timing, ensuring most liquid is absorbed without overcooking.

Crispy fried onions or bread crumbs add a delightful crunch, while fresh parsley brings a bright, herbal note to balance richness.

Yes, add pre-cooked chicken after coating with the honey BBQ mixture to save time and still enjoy robust flavors.

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.

I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight, hoping for something quick but satisfying. The family devoured it and requested it again the next day!

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

Sauté Chicken:: 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).
Add Sauce:: Stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes coating the chicken.
Combine Pasta and Liquids:: Add uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir to combine ensuring the pasta is submerged.
Simmer:: 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.
Add Cheese and Butter:: Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Finish:: Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat.
Garnish and Serve:: Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.

This mac and cheese has become a comfort staple in our home—my kids love helping sprinkle the crispy toppings before dinner!

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

This recipe contains milk, cheese, butter, wheat. BBQ sauce may have soy or gluten; always check labels for allergens.

Each serving provides approximately 670 calories, 23 g total fat, 74 g carbohydrates, 40 g protein.

Enjoy a bowl straight from the pot; the flavors get richer as it sits. Leftovers reheat nicely for lunch tomorrow!

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tender bites. Diced pieces cook quickly and blend well with the creamy base.
→ Can I use a different kind of cheese?: Sharp cheddar and mozzarella combine well for creaminess and flavor, but smoked cheddar or gouda can add a smokier depth to the dish.
→ Is it possible to make this without BBQ sauce?: While BBQ sauce provides signature sweetness and smokiness, substituting with tomato sauce and spices can create a different but tasty variation.
→ How do I avoid the macaroni becoming mushy?: Cook the macaroni to al dente by simmering with careful stirring and timing, ensuring most liquid is absorbed without overcooking.
→ What toppings enhance the texture and flavor?: Crispy fried onions or bread crumbs add a delightful crunch, while fresh parsley brings a bright, herbal note to balance richness.
→ Can leftover cooked chicken be used?: Yes, add pre-cooked chicken after coating with the honey BBQ mixture to save time and still enjoy robust flavors.