What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape, which holds the creamy cheese sauce well, providing a satisfying bite throughout.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be substituted for quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor.

Adding smoked paprika to both the cheese sauce and chicken layers intensifies the smoky aroma and depth.

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and extra shredded cheddar before sprinkling on top to create a golden, crunchy crust when baked.

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables offer a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy textures of the main dish.

A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.

My kids always ask for this casserole on busy weeknights. I love how the creamy macaroni and cheese pairs perfectly with the smoky barbecue chicken.

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)

Prepare Oven & Dish:: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
Cook Macaroni:: Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook BBQ Chicken:: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then shred. Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce:: Melt butter in a 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 add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard; stir until smooth.
Combine & Assemble:: Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into baking dish. Top evenly with BBQ chicken.
Add Topping:: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over macaroni, then top with extra cheddar.
Bake & Serve:: Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This casserole became a favorite during family movie nights, with everyone requesting seconds and sharing stories around the table.

Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish (9x13-inch), whisk, mixing bowls

Contains milk (dairy), wheat (gluten); may contain eggs and soy. Double-check ingredient labels.

Calories: 610, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 36 g

Enjoy this dish for any occasion. The blend of creamy cheese and BBQ chicken will bring smiles all around.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?: Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape, which holds the creamy cheese sauce well, providing a satisfying bite throughout.
→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of fresh?: Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be substituted for quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor.
→ How can I enhance the smoky flavor in the dish?: Adding smoked paprika to both the cheese sauce and chicken layers intensifies the smoky aroma and depth.
→ What’s the best way to achieve a crispy topping?: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and extra shredded cheddar before sprinkling on top to create a golden, crunchy crust when baked.
→ Are there suggested side dishes to complement this entrée?: A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables offer a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy textures of the main dish.