Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Delightful Comfort Dish

November 28, 2025July 8, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz elbow macaroni

– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

– 1 cup honey-flavored BBQ sauce

This dish starts with elbow macaroni. It gives you that perfect base. Next, you need shredded cooked chicken. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Finally, grab some honey-flavored BBQ sauce. This sauce is key for that sweet and smoky flavor.

Cheese Selection

– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Now, let’s talk cheese. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice bite. Use two cups for a rich taste. Next, add one cup of mozzarella cheese. It brings a creamy texture. Lastly, cream cheese makes the sauce smooth. You only need half a cup, but it changes everything.

Seasoning and Toppings

– 1 tsp garlic powder

– 1 tsp onion powder

– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Seasoning is the secret to great flavor. Use one teaspoon of garlic powder for depth. Add one teaspoon of onion powder for sweetness. Finally, panko breadcrumbs give a crunchy topping. You’ll mix these with olive oil before baking. It adds texture and makes the dish even better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

To start, fill a large pot with water and add a good amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes around 7-9 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it firm, not mushy.

Making the Cheese Sauce

Next, grab a medium saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and milk. Stir the mixture until the cream cheese melts and becomes smooth. This is the base of our cheese sauce. Now, it’s time to add the fun part—cheese! Stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix them in until they are fully melted and creamy. Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste it and adjust if needed.

Combining Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the honey-flavored BBQ sauce. Make sure every piece is well coated. Now, add the cooked macaroni to the bowl with the chicken. Pour in the creamy cheese sauce next. Gently stir everything together until you see a nice blend of chicken, pasta, and sauce.

Baking Process

Now, let’s prepare for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a baking dish and transfer the mac and cheese mixture into it. To add a crunchy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Finally, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the top to be golden and crispy. Enjoy the wonderful smell while it bakes!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

To get the best cheese sauce, you need the right texture. If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer. You want a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.

If you run out of cream cheese, you can use sour cream. It gives a nice tang. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. Both choices will still make your sauce creamy and rich.

Enhancing Flavor

To kick up the flavor, add spices. Try smoked paprika for a deeper taste. You can also mix in some cayenne for heat. Fresh herbs like parsley can give a nice touch too.

When choosing between garlic and onion powder, think about your taste. Garlic powder adds a strong taste. Onion powder is milder and sweeter. You can even combine both for a great balance.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with simple sides. A fresh green salad gives a nice crunch. You might also like garlic bread for extra flavor.

For presentation, use a nice baking dish. Once it’s baked, let it cool before serving. Top with chopped green onions for color. This makes your dish look extra special and inviting.

Variations

Different Meats

You can switch up the meat in this dish. Pulled pork adds a nice twist. It gives a smoky flavor that blends well with BBQ sauce. You can also use shredded beef. This works great for a heartier meal. If you want a meatless option, try using jackfruit. It has a similar texture to pulled meat. You can season it with BBQ sauce for a tasty vegetarian dish.

Cheese Alternatives

While sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, there are many other cheeses to try. Gouda adds a rich, smoky taste. Pepper jack gives a spicy kick. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. If you need a vegan option, look for vegan cream cheese and cheese shreds. Nutritional yeast also adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.

BBQ Sauce Flavors

The BBQ sauce you choose can change the whole dish. A spicy BBQ sauce can add heat and depth. Look for sauces labeled as spicy or hot. If you want to make your own, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Add spices like chili powder or cayenne for extra flavor. Homemade BBQ sauce lets you control the heat and sweetness.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

Store any leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Leftovers should be eaten within three to four days for the best quality.

Freezing Tips

To freeze mac and cheese, let it cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use heavy-duty freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Guidelines

You can reheat your mac and cheese in two ways: the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and add a splash of milk. This keeps it creamy. Heat it for about two minutes, stirring halfway through. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to lock in moisture. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. This method helps maintain texture and flavor, making it taste fresh again.

FAQs

Can I make Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Place it in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add extra baking time if it’s cold. This method keeps the flavors fresh and saves you time.

How can I make it spicier?

To add heat to your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, try these tips:

– Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

– Use a spicy BBQ sauce instead of honey-flavored sauce.

– Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when mixing the chicken and BBQ.

– Consider topping it with a sprinkle of chili powder before baking for an extra kick. These options let you control the spice level to fit your taste.

What are some good side dishes to serve with it?

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs well with several side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

– Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast.

– Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up cheesy goodness.

– Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients.

– Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the BBQ flavors nicely.

These sides enhance the meal and make it more satisfying.

This blog shares how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. You learned about key ingredients, from elbow macaroni to the perfect cheese mix. We covered simple cooking steps, tips to improve flavor, and tasty variations.

Finally, you can store this dish for later and still enjoy its great taste. Whether you share it or savor it alone, this recipe offers warmth and comfort. Dive in and enjoy your flavorful creatio