Save to Pinterest 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 staple in our home for busy weeknights. The creamy cheese sauce paired with smoky chicken never disappoints.
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 to Pinterest Every family dinner becomes special with this dish on the table, bringing everyone closer with each creamy cheesy bite.
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 to Pinterest This classic mac & cheese casserole is sure to comfort and satisfy your family any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding creamy cheese sauce, but other small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi also work well.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a balanced flavor, but feel free to experiment with Gruyère or smoked cheese for variation.
- → How is the barbecue chicken prepared?
Chicken breasts are seasoned with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooked until tender, then shredded and tossed in barbecue sauce before topping the casserole.
- → What’s the purpose of the panko topping?
Panko breadcrumbs combined with melted butter and extra cheddar cheese add a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts with the creamy interior.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate, then bake it just before serving for convenience.
- → Are there suggested additions to enhance flavor?
Sautéed onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs can be added to intensify flavors and provide extra depth to the dish.