Classic Mac Cheese BBQ Chicken

This Classic Mac and Cheese with BBQ Chicken brings together creamy noodles and smoky tangy barbecue chicken for serious comfort food vibes at the dinner table. When my family craves something hearty and irresistible on busy weeknights this casserole always delivers plenty of flavor with minimal effort. The cheesy sauce blankets every bite and the crisp breadcrumb topping adds just right crunch.

I started making this casserole for football Sundays and soon realized it was the perfect way to use up leftover chicken too. The classic mac and cheese flavors shine while the BBQ twist keeps it exciting every single time.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: Pasta shape that holds sauce well Choose a high quality brand for best texture
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Main flavor foundation Look for blocks and shred fresh for smooth melting
• Mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey stretch Buy whole milk mozzarella for rich taste
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty depth Grate it yourself for best aroma
• Whole milk: Ensures ultra creamy sauce Use fresh whole milk for maximum silkiness
• Unsalted butter: Base for roux and topping European style butter gives richer flavor
• All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce Go with unbleached flour for light sauce color
• BBQ chicken: Made with chicken breasts and barbecue sauce Opt for free range chicken and your favorite barbecue sauce for best flavor
• Smoked paprika: Gives subtle smokiness Choose Spanish smoked paprika for authentic taste
• Ground mustard: Boosts classic mac and cheese flavor Yellow or Dijon style works well if using powder
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning Use freshly cracked pepper for nice bite
• Panko breadcrumbs: Crunchy topping Japanese panko stays crisp when baked
• Olive oil: For sautéing chicken Extra virgin olive oil boosts savory notes

Instructions

Preheat and Prep the Oven:

Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit Lightly grease the 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking Make sure you have everything measured so the workflow is smooth

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add elbow macaroni Stir occasionally so they do not clump Cook just to al dente which means tender but firm to the bite Drain thoroughly and spread out on a tray to avoid overcooking while you finish the sauce and chicken

Cook and Prepare BBQ Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat Season chicken breasts generously on both sides with smoked paprika salt and black pepper Lay them flat and cook six to seven minutes each side until fully cooked through and slightly golden Rest chicken for five minutes to lock in juices then shred with two forks Toss the shredded meat with barbecue sauce until evenly coated Let it sit so flavor absorbs

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat Add flour and whisk constantly for about one minute so raw taste is gone Slowly pour in whole milk while whisking until smooth and thick This takes about five minutes Remove from heat Then quickly stir in cheddar mozzarella parmesan salt black pepper smoked paprika and ground mustard for a velvety sauce Make sure the cheeses completely melt for creamy texture

Assemble the Casserole:

Mix cooked macaroni gently with cheese sauce Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish Spread BBQ chicken evenly over top so each scoop gets chicken Crunch up any clumpy chicken pieces for even distribution

Add the Crispy Topping:

Toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until every crumb is coated Sprinkle this mix evenly over casserole followed by the extra cheddar cheese so the top melts golden in the oven

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for twenty minutes The casserole is ready when bubbling at the edges and topping turns a deep golden brown Let rest five minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld

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Macaroni and cheese has always meant big smiles at my dinner table The best ingredient for me is freshly grated sharp cheddar It melts so much smoother and the flavor always reminds me of baking with my grandmother She loved a crispy breadcrumb topping and believed comfort food should be simple and made from scratch Just like this casserole

How to Store Leftovers

Transfer leftover casserole to airtight containers Store in the refrigerator for up to three days For reheating microwave covered portions with a splash of milk to revive creamy texture or cover with foil and warm in the oven Low slow heat keeps the sauce silky and prevents drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap elbow macaroni for cavatappi penne or shells for a fun texture twist Try smoked gouda or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for deeper flavor If you want a plant based version use chickpea pasta vegan cheeses and jackfruit or tofu for the chicken This changes the nutrition and flavor profile but still delivers chew and comfort

Serving Ideas for the Table

Serve with a tossed green salad dressed in vinaigrette or crisp slaw on the side to balance richness Classic mac and cheese pairs beautifully with pickled jalapenos on top for heat or sliced green onions for color and punch Try adding roasted broccoli or sautéed bell peppers for a veggie loaded meal

The Story Behind the Dish

Combining barbecue chicken with mac and cheese is a nod to summer cookouts and Southern casseroles Many American families grew up loving both and layering them together guarantees everyone gets their favorite bite This version uses everyday pantry staples to make comfort food accessible year round

Adapting for the Seasons

Use leftover roast chicken during the holidays for a festive twist Amp up the veggies in spring with leeks or asparagus Try a spicy barbecue sauce for winter dinners that warm you up For summer outdoor gatherings bake individual portions so everyone gets perfect cheese pulls

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This classic casserole brings big flavors and heartwarming comfort to your table Any leftovers make a wonderful lunch the next day.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken can be substituted. Shred and toss with barbecue sauce before layering.

→ Which cheeses work best for a creamy sauce?

A mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the best flavor and creamy texture for the sauce.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Include sautéed onions, jalapeños, or use a smoky barbecue sauce for an extra punch.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead?

Absolutely—assemble in advance and bake when ready. Store covered in the fridge for up to one day before baking.

→ What is the purpose of the breadcrumb topping?

Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter add crunch, while extra cheddar enhances flavor and browning.

→ How do I serve this dish?

Slice and serve warm, ideally with a crisp green salad to balance its rich flavors.