When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like a plate of creamy mac and cheese accompanied by juicy, flavorful chicken. I recently whipped up a mouthwatering dish—a High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese—that transformed my takeout temptation into a home-cooked delight. Imagine the savory aroma of garlic mingling with rich honey and butter, enveloping tender chicken, perfectly paired with smooth, cheesy pasta.
This recipe is a celebration of classic favorites with a nutritious twist, designed for those who want hearty meals without sacrificing health. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for a busy week ahead, this dish is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. So, put away those fast food menus and join me in the kitchen to create a comforting meal that’s sure to impress everyone around the table!
Why is High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese a Game-Changer?
Comforting and Satisfying: This dish combines the heartiness of classic mac and cheese with the savory richness of honey garlic chicken.
Healthier Twist: Packed with protein, it satisfies cravings while keeping your diet in check.
Quick Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip this up in just 30 minutes!
Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to switch up the pasta or protein—adapt it to your taste!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or meal prep, everyone will be asking for seconds!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
Explore what makes this dish a powerhouse of flavor!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – A lean protein source that can easily be swapped for juicy chicken thighs if desired.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for marinating; you can use avocado oil or any preferred oil for a different taste.
- Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best results.
- Smoked Paprika – Provides a delightful smokiness; regular paprika works as a milder alternative.
- Garlic Powder – Offers concentrated garlic flavor; feel free to substitute with fresh garlic.
- Dried Parsley – A touch of freshness; fresh parsley can also brighten up the dish.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust according to your dietary preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; using freshly ground pepper elevates the flavor.
For the Sauce
- Butter – Introduces richness and excellent flavor to the chicken and the dish as a whole.
- Honey – Offers a sweet balance to the savory flavors; maple syrup is an interesting substitute if you want to mix it up.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley – For garnish; it’s optional but adds a lovely fresh note.
For the Mac & Cheese
- Heavy Cream – Creates a smooth and creamy cheese sauce; half-and-half can lighten it up if preferred.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese – Brings creaminess and depth of flavor; experiment with your favorite cheeses.
- Elbow Macaroni – The pasta base that holds the cheesy goodness; try gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free dish.
By using this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese recipe, you’re treating yourself and your loved ones to a delicious, filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Make High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
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Marinate Chicken: Begin by combining cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture marinate for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
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Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Then, lower the heat and mix in butter, honey, and additional parsley for a luscious glaze.
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Prepare Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, then sauté garlic until it becomes fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring in the grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese along with spices until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Cook Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce in the skillet and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the pasta absorb that delicious cheesy goodness.
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Serve & Store: Serve your high protein honey garlic butter chicken and creamy mac and cheese warm, or portion it out into airtight containers for meal prep. It’s perfect for heating up later!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore creaminess.
- Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep, divide into individual servings for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Enjoy your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese anytime!
What to Serve with High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?
Level up your meal with these delightful pairings that complement every savory bite and creamy mouthful.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, toasty goodness of garlic bread absorbs any excess sauce while delivering a satisfying crunch with each bite.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adding vibrant green broccoli provides a pop of color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully. Toss in some lemon zest for a bright finish!
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a fresh contrast that lightens up the entire meal. It’s a perfect palate cleanser after the hearty chicken and pasta.
- Grilled Asparagus: Slightly charred asparagus offers a savory depth and tender snap, enhancing the dish while adding a touch of elegance to your spread.
- Sweet Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of corn pairs nicely with the honey glaze on the chicken, creating a delightful symphony of flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits acts as a sweet palate cleanser and introduces bright, juicy contrasts that enhance your comfort food experience.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: This fizzy drink is perfect for rounding out your meal, offering a bubbly sweetness that complements both the chicken and cheesy pasta.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies served with ice cream provide an irresistible sweet finish that everyone will love!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this comforting dish to match your taste buds!
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Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re tender and juicy.
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Tofu Choice: For a plant-based option, use tofu as your protein. Marinate it similarly, and sauté until golden and crisp for extra flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Add nutrition by throwing in chopped broccoli or spinach into the mac and cheese. It not only adds color but packs a healthy punch too!
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Different Pasta: Swap elbow macaroni for fusilli or penne for a fun new shape that holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully.
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Cheesy Experiment: Play with different cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack for a more adventurous flavor profile. Each choice brings its own unique taste!
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Gluten-Free: Want to keep it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta which will still deliver on taste without compromising your dietary needs.
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Sweet Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Herbal Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil sprinkled on top just before serving. They provide a fragrant, fresh finish that brightens every bite.
Expert Tips for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes, but longer if possible, to infuse deeper flavors into the protein.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and to maintain juiciness.
- Low and Slow Cheese: Melt cheese in the sauce over low heat to avoid graininess; a gentle simmer keeps your sauce creamy.
- Pasta Rinse: Always rinse the macaroni with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color in your high protein honey garlic butter chicken dish.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the mac and cheese sauce ahead of time; it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, just heat the sauce over low heat, boil your elbow macaroni until al dente, and combine the two for a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select the chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for breasts that are firm and plump with a pinkish hue. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell. If you’re after juicier meat, swapping for chicken thighs is a fantastic option!
How long can I store leftovers of this dish?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up to preserve its delicious flavors.
Can I freeze the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the completed dish in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to label them with the date and reheat by thawing overnight in the fridge before warming up on the stove or microwave. Adding a splash of milk will help restore creaminess.
What if my cheese sauce turns grainy?
If you encounter graininess in your cheese sauce, worry not! It often happens from overheating. To fix it, gently stir in a bit more heavy cream over low heat. If making from scratch, always melt cheese in the sauce over low heat to achieve a smooth consistency.
Is this dish suitable for special dietary needs?
Very! You can adjust this recipe to fit various dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your chosen ingredients are free from gluten. Looking for a vegetarian twist? Try substituting chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Just remember to keep the flavors rich and satisfying!
How can I make this meal more nutritious?
The more the merrier! To pack even more nutrients into your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers into the mac and cheese. This not only enhances the dish’s color but also boosts its health benefits!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: Combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook marinated chicken for 10-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Mix in butter, honey, and parsley.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, add mozzarella and cheddar, stirring until smooth.
- Cook Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine: Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce; simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve & Store: Serve warm, or portion into airtight containers for meal prep. Garnish with parsley.