Save A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
I still remember the first time I made this mac & cheese with BBQ chicken for my kids: they couldn't stop asking for seconds. It quickly became a requested favorite at every gathering.
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
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare BBQ Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred with two forks. Toss 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). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and mustard until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Assemble & Top:
- 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 When we make this casserole, my youngest always insists on helping sprinkle the breadcrumbs. That finishing touch makes every family dinner extra special.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this classic dish with a side of crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for balance and freshness.
Customization Ideas
Mix in sautéed onions, jalapeños, or swap out cheeses to suit your family's taste. Try spicy BBQ sauce for extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake until warmed through.
Save This flavorful casserole makes leftovers just as delicious the next day. Enjoy every bite with family!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding the creamy cheese sauce and baking evenly in the casserole.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be substituted to save time while maintaining flavor.
- → What cheeses are used in the sauce?
A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, smooth sauce with balanced flavor.
- → How do I achieve the crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cheddar before baking for a golden crust.
- → Can the smoked paprika be omitted?
Smoked paprika adds subtle smokiness but can be left out or replaced with a mild spice to suit preferences.