Honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese for ultimate comfort

Craving the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and cheesy goodness? This honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese is pure comfort food, packed with protein and bold flavors. Juicy, BBQ-glazed chicken meets ultra-creamy mac and cheese for a dish that feels indulgent yet gives your body the fuel it needs. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a post-workout protein boost, this high-protein twist on a classic hits the spot. Made with real cheddar, melty mozzarella, and a touch of honey, every bite is rich, satisfying, and just a little addictive. Ready to make your new favorite meal? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredient lineup

This high-protein honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese is all about balancing smoky, sweet, and cheesy flavors with a protein-packed twist. Below is everything you need to create this satisfying dish, along with a few substitutions to suit your taste and dietary needs.

The essentials

Boneless, skinless chicken breast: lean and packed with protein, perfect for absorbing BBQ flavors.
(Substitute: boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.)
Elbow macaroni: the ideal pasta shape for holding onto creamy cheese sauce.
(Substitute: whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.)
Honey BBQ sauce: delivers a rich, smoky-sweet glaze for the chicken.
(Substitute: homemade BBQ sauce with honey and smoked paprika for a more customized flavor.)
Honey: enhances the BBQ sauce with natural sweetness.
(Substitute: maple syrup for a slightly deeper caramel-like sweetness.)
Olive oil: used to sear the chicken, adding depth of flavor and helping achieve a golden crust.
(Substitute: avocado oil for a high-heat alternative.)
Butter: forms the base of the cheese sauce, adding richness and depth.
(Substitute: ghee for a slightly nuttier flavor.)
All-purpose flour: helps thicken the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
(Substitute: cornstarch for a gluten-free option, but use half the amount.)
Milk: forms the base of the cheese sauce, making it rich and velvety.
(Substitute: evaporated milk for extra creaminess or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option.)
Garlic: adds a savory depth to both the chicken and cheese sauce.
(Substitute: garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.)

Cheese options

Sharp cheddar cheese: gives the mac and cheese a bold, tangy flavor.
(Substitute: extra-sharp cheddar for a more intense taste or white cheddar for a milder option.)
Mozzarella cheese: adds a creamy, stretchy texture to the sauce.
(Substitute: provolone for a similar melt or gouda for a smokier profile.)
Parmesan cheese: provides a salty, nutty kick to balance the sauce.
(Substitute: pecorino romano for a sharper flavor.)

Optional flavor boosters

Greek yogurt: stirred into the cheese sauce for extra protein and creaminess.
(Substitute: cottage cheese blended smooth for a similar protein boost.)
Smoked paprika: enhances the BBQ flavor with a warm, smoky note.
Red pepper flakes: adds a touch of heat for spice lovers.
Dijon mustard: gives the cheese sauce a subtle tangy depth.

Herbs and seasonings

Garlic powder & onion powder: boost the flavor in both the chicken and mac and cheese.
Salt & black pepper: simple but essential for balancing the dish.

Crunchy add-ons

Panko breadcrumbs: toasted with butter for a crispy topping.
(Substitute: crushed whole wheat crackers or cornflakes for a different crunch.)
Crumbled turkey bacon: adds a smoky, crispy texture.
Toasted pecans: for a nutty contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Optional toppings

Drizzle of extra BBQ sauce: enhances the sweet and smoky notes.
Fresh parsley: adds a pop of color and freshness.
Sliced green onions: for a mild, sharp bite that balances the richness.

Step-by-step directions

Making honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese is simple when broken down into a few key steps. Follow this guide for a creamy, smoky, and protein-packed meal.

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Prepare the chicken

Generously season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for bold flavor. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding. Toss it with honey BBQ sauce until every piece is fully coated in sticky, smoky-sweet goodness.

Make the cheese sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour, whisking constantly, and cook for 1 minute to form a light golden roux. Slowly pour in milk, continuing to whisk to keep the sauce smooth. Stir in reserved pasta water to enhance the texture. Lower the heat and mix in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, stirring until velvety and rich. For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne and a swirl of Dijon mustard.

Assemble, serve, and garnish

Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in creamy goodness. If the sauce thickens, loosen it with a splash of milk. Plate the mac and cheese alongside the BBQ chicken and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for a glossy finish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Now, grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

Pro oh là là tips

Want to take your honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese from delicious to downright unforgettable? These bold upgrades and mouthwatering pairings will do just that!

Customization and variations

Mix it up: swap in shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, pulled turkey for a leaner option, or crispy tofu for a vegetarian-friendly twist
Heat things up: stir in cayenne, chipotle powder, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Boost the BBQ magic: a touch of smoked paprika deepens the smoky flavor, while a drizzle of maple syrup enhances the natural caramelized sweetness.
Veggie boost: mix in caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Creamier finish: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for an ultra-smooth, velvety sauce.

Pairings and serving ideas

Southern-style pairing: enjoy with buttermilk cornbread or garlic butter biscuits for a cozy, comforting meal.
Crisp and refreshing: pair with a simple apple slaw with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy, cheesy richness.
Savory contrast: pair with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze to add depth and a touch of sweetness.
Spiced-up side: enjoy alongside air-fried sweet potato fries for a crispy, slightly smoky complement.
Light and fresh: a tomato and arugula salad with lemon dressing cuts through the richness beautifully.

Frequently asked questions

How much protein is in honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese?

A serving with grilled chicken and a cheese-based sauce typically delivers 25–35g of protein, making it a satisfying meal. Want more? Swap in high-protein pasta, toss in extra chicken, or stir in Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a creamy, protein-rich boost

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

For extra nutrients, stir in sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions. Broccoli and peas also blend well with the cheesy sauce while adding fiber and vitamins.

Can I make honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Keep the mac and cheese and BBQ chicken separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pasta with a splash of milk to keep it creamy, warm up the chicken, and combine everything for a fresh, just-made taste.

How can I make a lighter version of this dish?

For a healthier version, use whole wheat or high-protein pasta, swap some cheese for Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese, and use grilled or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of fried. You can also add roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.

This honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese is more than a meal; it’s comfort food on a whole new level. Every forkful delivers smoky, sweet, and cheesy perfection, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy dinner or impressing a crowd, this dish delivers bold flavor and serious protein power. And with endless ways to customize, you can make it exactly how you love it. So grab a plate, dig in, and enjoy every delicious bite!

What’s your favorite way to elevate mac and cheese? Drop your ideas in the comments. I’d love to hear them!

Bon appétit!

Recipe card

Honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese

Author: Chef Kai
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2️⃣ Prepare the chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let it rest, then slice. Toss with honey BBQ sauce and honey.

3️⃣ Make the cheese sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and pasta water, cooking until slightly thickened. Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until melted and smooth. Mix in Dijon mustard and cayenne.

4️⃣ Assemble, serve, and garnish
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen. Plate the mac and cheese alongside the BBQ chicken, drizzling extra sauce over the chicken. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Pro oh là là tip: let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and prevent the BBQ sauce from thinning out too much.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes