Honey BBQ Chicken & Mac Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, this Honey BBQ Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Juicy chicken coated in a sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze pairs perfectly with rich, cheesy macaroni. It’s family-friendly, satisfying, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

 For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken thighs or drumsticks, diced
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (smoky or spicy works great)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

  For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mix with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if desired)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Paprika or chili flakes for extra heat
• Sliced green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Honey BBQ Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and honey.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the glaze thickens and coats each piece.
6. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Mac and Cheese

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in milk until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
4. Add shredded cheese and stir until smooth and melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated.

Step 3: Plate and Serve

• Spoon mac and cheese into one side of the bowl and honey BBQ chicken on the other.
• Garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color.
• Optional: sprinkle extra shredded cheese or paprika over the top for added flavor.

Tips for the Best Results

• For extra flavor: Use a smoky BBQ sauce or add a splash of hot sauce for spice.
• Make it crispy: Bake the chicken pieces in the oven before tossing them in the honey BBQ glaze.
• Upgrade your mac: Top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter, then broil for a golden crust.
• Meal prep friendly: Store chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers; reheat and combine before serving.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with warm cornbread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side salad for balance.
• Turn it into a casserole: layer the mac and cheese in a baking dish, top with honey BBQ chicken, sprinkle extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Variations

• Protein swap: Try using shrimp, turkey, or even tofu instead of chicken.
• Veggie boost: Add roasted bell peppers, corn, or broccoli to the mac and cheese.
• Cheese blend: Mix cheddar with gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for deeper flavor.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
• Chicken can also be reheated in a skillet to keep the glaze sticky and flavorful.

Nutrition (per serving – approx.)

• Calories: 520–580
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

This Honey BBQ Chicken & Mac is sweet, savory, creamy, and comforting all in one bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners when you want something hearty and delicious.