Save A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
My kids always light up when I bring out this bubbly mac & cheese casserole. The smoky BBQ chicken adds an irresistible twist that makes any weeknight dinner feel special.
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 & Pan:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil 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 with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook about 6-7 minutes per side until done. Rest for 5 minutes, shred with two forks, then 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 until smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Take off heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until melty and smooth.
- Assemble Dish:
- Combine macaroni with cheese sauce, transfer to baking dish, and evenly top with BBQ chicken.
- Add Topping:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top, then add extra cheddar.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole became our go-to weekend treat after outdoor picnics. Everybody helps themselves and there's always requests for seconds!
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, 9x13-inch baking dish, whisk, mixing bowls
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and gluten. May contain eggs or soy depending on ingredients used. Check all labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 610 calories, 27 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein
Save Serve this bubbly, flavorful casserole hot from the oven for the best melty texture. It’s always a hit at family gatherings!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce and combines well with the toppings.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking to save time on cooking day.
- → How can I add more smoky flavor?
Include smoked paprika in the cheese sauce or choose a smoky barbecue sauce for the chicken.
- → Is it possible to substitute chicken?
Rotisserie chicken works well for a quicker version without sacrificing flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables create a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.