Why Make This Recipe

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a perfect dish for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal while keeping their protein intake high. This recipe combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, paired with creamy mac and cheese. It’s not only filling but also satisfying, making it great for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and steps!

How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts (cubed)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried parsley
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you get the other ingredients ready.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the chicken is fully cooked. Lower the heat and mix in the butter, honey, and chopped parsley until melted and combined. Set aside.
Make the Mac & Cheese: In the same skillet, add butter to deglaze the pan on medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble gently.
Melt the Cheese: Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent it from cooking further.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Serve & Store: Enjoy it warm or portion it into four airtight containers for meal prepping.

How to Serve High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

You can serve this dish immediately after cooking, garnished with additional chopped parsley for freshness. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Store High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

To store leftovers, place the chicken and mac and cheese into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, and it should last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it before reheating.

Tips to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Customize Protein: You can use turkey or chickpeas instead of chicken for a different protein source.
Add Veggies: To boost nutrition, consider adding cooked broccoli or spinach into the mac and cheese.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese on its own, or serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.

Final Thoughts

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is not just delicious but also easy to prepare. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, it’s bound to be a hit at your table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy!

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I make it healthier?
You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of butter or cream used in the recipe.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the cheese sauce in advance for quicker cooking on the day you want to serve it.