What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is ideal for its size and shape, holding the cheese sauce well for a creamy consistency.

Can I use a different cheese blend?

A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a well-rounded flavor and creamy texture.

Chicken breasts are seasoned, pan-cooked until tender, shredded, and mixed with barbecue sauce before topping the dish.

Yes, sautéed onions or jalapeños can be included for an added kick and depth of flavor.

A mix of panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and cheddar cheese is sprinkled on top for a crispy golden finish.

A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.

The first time I made this for my family, everyone had seconds. The smoky barbecue chicken lifts traditional mac & cheese to a whole new level.

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)

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.
Make BBQ Chicken:: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until done, then shred with two forks. Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce; set aside.
Prepare 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).
Finish Cheese Sauce:: 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 Toppings:: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top, followed by extra cheddar cheese.
Bake:: Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Our kids love helping layer the chicken and sprinkle the toppings. Sharing this casserole has become a tradition for casual Sunday dinners.

Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish (9x13-inch), whisk, mixing bowls

Per serving: 610 calories, 27 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein

Substitute rotisserie chicken for a quicker version. Use your favorite style of barbecue sauce for unique flavor.

Enjoy this comforting casserole fresh from the oven. It makes leftovers everyone will look forward to!

→ What type of pasta works best?: Elbow macaroni is ideal for its size and shape, holding the cheese sauce well for a creamy consistency.
→ Can I use a different cheese blend?: A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a well-rounded flavor and creamy texture.
→ How should the chicken be prepared?: Chicken breasts are seasoned, pan-cooked until tender, shredded, and mixed with barbecue sauce before topping the dish.
→ Is it possible to add extra flavors?: Yes, sautéed onions or jalapeños can be included for an added kick and depth of flavor.
→ What does the topping consist of?: A mix of panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and cheddar cheese is sprinkled on top for a crispy golden finish.