Save Pin A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
This recipe quickly became a weeknight favorite in our house, especially on chilly evenings when everyone craves a little extra comfort food. The barbecue chicken adds a delicious twist to a classic dish my kids adore.
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:
- 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.
- Cook Chicken:
- 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:
- 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.
- Combine & Assemble:
- 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 Pin I still remember the first time my family gathered around the table for this mac & cheese casserole. There were smiles all around as we enjoyed each cheesy, smoky bite together.
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
Per serving: Calories 610, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 36 g
Save Pin Dig in and enjoy the creamy, savory comfort of this classic twist. It makes every meal a special family moment.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the creamy cheese sauce well and bakes evenly in the casserole.
- → Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated before combining with the pasta to ensure smoothness.
- → How do I achieve a smoky flavor in the chicken?
Seasoning the chicken with smoked paprika and using a rich barbecue sauce adds a pronounced smoky depth to the dish.
- → Is it possible to substitute the chicken with another protein?
Rotisserie chicken or shredded pulled pork can be used as alternatives and pair well with the cheese sauce and spices.
- → What is the purpose of the breadcrumb topping?
The panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter create a crunchy golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Adding sautéed onions, jalapeños, or chopped greens can enhance flavor and add a fresh note to the casserole.