One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken (Printable View)

Comforting creamy mac and cheese with honey BBQ chicken and melted sharp cheddar in a single pot.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced (about 14 oz)
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
05 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Sauce

06 - 1 cup BBQ sauce (240 ml)
07 - 2 tbsp honey

→ Pasta & Cheese

08 - 12 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
09 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (720 ml)
10 - 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
11 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (7 oz)
12 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (3.5 oz)
13 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Topping (Optional)

14 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
15 - 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or bread crumbs (about 1 oz)

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked.
02 - Stir in BBQ sauce and honey, cooking for 2 minutes to coat the chicken evenly.
03 - Add uncooked macaroni, chicken broth, and whole milk. Stir well to combine and ensure pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
05 - Stir in butter, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and sauce is creamy.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crispy onions or bread crumbs if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One-pot means minimal cleanup
  • Sweet and smoky flavors in every bite
02 -
  • This recipe contains dairy and wheat
  • BBQ sauce may include soy or gluten (always check labels)
03 -
  • Swap smoked cheddar for more smokiness or add a pinch of chipotle powder
  • Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken can be substituted (add at step 2)
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