Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a comforting dish that combines the goodness of creamy mac and cheese with the savory flavors of BBQ chicken. It’s a delightful choice for a family dinner or a potluck. This recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use leftover chicken!

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked macaroni
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: green onions for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, milk, honey, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve warm.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Serve this dish warm straight from the oven. It pairs nicely with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a few extra green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

  • Make sure the macaroni is cooked al dente; it will soften more in the oven.
  • You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding some spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the mix.

variation

You can use different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or mix in some bacon for added crunch and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken, but you will need to cook it separately before shredding it.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

How can I make this a vegetarian dish?
You can replace chicken with black beans or other plant-based proteins and use a vegetarian BBQ sauce.

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

A comforting dish that combines creamy mac and cheese with savory BBQ chicken, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked macaroni Make sure the macaroni is cooked al dente.
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken for convenience.

Sauce and Dairy

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite BBQ sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Reserve half for topping.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve half for topping.
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt and pepper

Optional Garnish

  • to taste Green onions For garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, milk, honey, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  • Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  • Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

  • Garnish with green onions, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. Customize with vegetables or different cheeses for variety.
Keyword Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, Pasta Bake, Potluck Dish

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