Save 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.
This One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect weeknight meal when you're craving something hearty and delicious without a pile of dishes to wash. It's a favorite in my house, especially on busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: (240 ml) (your favorite style)
- 2 tbsp honey:
- 350 g elbow macaroni: (12 oz) (uncooked)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: (720 ml)
- 1 cup whole milk: (240 ml)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: (200 g)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: (100 g)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: (Optional)
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or bread crumbs: (25 g) (Optional)
Instructions
- 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 BBQ Sauce:
- Stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes, coating the chicken.
- Combine Pasta & Liquids:
- Add the uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
- Cook Pasta:
- 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.
- Melt Cheese:
- Stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve hot.
Save I remember the first time I made this, my family couldn't get enough. The comforting aroma filled the kitchen, and the combination of savory chicken, sweet BBQ, and creamy mac and cheese was an instant hit with everyone, even my picky eater!
Required Tools
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
Allergen Information
- Contains: Dairy (milk, cheese, butter), Wheat (macaroni)
- BBQ sauce may contain soy or gluten; check labels if concerned.
- Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 670
- Total Fat: 23 g
- Carbohydrates: 74 g
- Protein: 40 g
This easy one-pot recipe brings together classic comfort food flavors in a delicious and convenient way, perfect for any weeknight.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, simply add chopped cooked chicken at the sauce-mixing step for quick preparation and excellent flavor.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Opt for a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of chipotle powder or dash of hot sauce to increase heat.
- → What type of cheese works best for extra creaminess?
Sharp cheddar offers robust flavor, while mozzarella melts smoothly. Smoked cheddar adds a deeper taste.
- → Are there gluten-free options for pasta?
Gluten-free elbow macaroni can replace regular pasta. Ensure other ingredients, including BBQ sauce, are gluten-free.
- → How do I get a crunchy topping?
Add crispy fried onions or toasted bread crumbs just before serving for texture and extra flavor.
- → What cookware is best for this dish?
A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven helps cook evenly and makes stirring and cleanup easy.