As the fragrant aroma of honey garlic sauce fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and comfort wash over me. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, a perfect blend of juicy chicken and creamy pasta that will make your taste buds dance. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a brilliant choice for meal prep—its high protein content makes it ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you opt for chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe offers the flexibility to suit your preferences. Ready to dive into the easy steps that promise delicious homemade comfort? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for home cooks of any skill level.
High Protein Boost: Each serving provides a substantial protein punch, keeping you satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Irresistibly Flavorful: The honey garlic sauce perfectly complements the creamy mac and cheese, creating a harmonious blend that pleases every palate.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy warm, comforting meals ready to go throughout the week!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier bites or toss in your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
Sink your teeth into this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! For more delicious chicken recipes, check out my Honey Pepper Chicken or Cajun Honey Butter options!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – A great protein base; swap for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Olive Oil – Enhances flavor during marination; avocado oil is a good substitute.
- Garlic – Minced for a bold aromatic punch throughout the dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a lovely smokiness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Can enhance the garlic flavor if you prefer an extra kick.
- Dried Parsley – Provides a touch of herbaceous flavor and visual appeal.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for a balanced and robust taste.
For the Sauce
- Avocado Oil/Butter – Adds richness and is used for cooking the chicken.
- Honey – Brings a delightful sweetness that beautifully balances the savoriness.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley – A fresh garnish to brighten up your dish.
For the Mac & Cheese
- Butter – Enriches the cheese sauce and contributes to its creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese – Key for a rich and gooey cheese sauce; always choose freshly grated for the best melt.
- Elbow Macaroni – The perfect pasta for this dish; cook until al dente for the best texture.
This hearty and fulfilling High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese will surely make your weeknights easier and more delicious!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cubing the chicken breasts and placing them in a bowl. Drizzle in olive oil and add minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything until the chicken is evenly coated, then let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to build flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet, ensuring the pieces are spread out. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley, allowing it to meld with the chicken for a couple of minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet with the remaining juices, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to soften. Carefully pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle bubble. Gradually mix in freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheeses while stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Lower the heat on the sauce to a simmer and add the cooked macaroni directly into the cheese sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly, letting the mac and cheese absorb the flavors for about 5 minutes. Finally, fold in the honey garlic butter chicken until everything is well combined and heated through, creating that comforting dish of High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Once combined, serve the dish warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. If you wish to store leftovers, let the chicken and mac and cheese cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage, making it perfect for meal prep!
How to Store and Freeze High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the high protein honey garlic butter chicken and mac & cheese components separately. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Serving Size: When storing, divide into individual portions for easy meal prep and convenient reheating during busy weeknights.
What to Serve with High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Looking to create a delightful spread that perfectly complements your comforting dish and satisfies every craving?
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad helps balance the creamy mac and cheese, providing a refreshing crunch with each bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful vegetables roasted to caramelized perfection add vibrant flavors and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic favorite, perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness and soaking up the honey garlic sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Slightly tender yet crisp, broccoli brings a vibrant hue to your plate and adds a nutritious touch, helping to elevate the dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the rich honey garlic butter sauce and mac and cheese.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and a splash of acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken and pasta.
- Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio will enhance the flavors while providing a refreshing note to your meal.
- Chocolate Cake: End your comforting feast on a sweet note with a slice of moist chocolate cake, offering a rich contrast to the savory flavors.
Enjoy crafting the perfect meal while savoring the high protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and add your flair to this delightful dish!
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier bite that’s bursting with flavor. Each piece will melt in your mouth.
- Add Veggies: Toss spinach or broccoli into your mac and cheese for extra nutrients and a vibrant splash of color. They’ll soften nicely without overpowering the dish.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack to introduce unique flavors. This twist can elevate your mac and cheese to new heights.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow pasta to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the comforting vibe intact. You’ll enjoy the same rich flavors without compromise.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat. It’ll add an exciting layer of warmth to the dish.
- Coconut Milk: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still delivers creaminess in the mac and cheese. It brings a subtle hint of sweetness.
- Honey Alternatives: Try maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a different sweet twist. Both will harmonize beautifully with the savory elements.
- Pasta Varieties: Feel free to use different pasta shapes, such as shells or rotini, for a fun texture change. Each bite will give you a delightful mouthful of cheesy goodness.
Bring your kitchen spirit alive as you try these variations! And if you’re looking for more creamy recipes, don’t miss my Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls or the indulgent Cheesy Garlic Butter Steak!
Expert Tips for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and cheeses. Freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar guarantee a smooth, creamy texture in your mac and cheese.
Perfect Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This avoids any safety concerns and guarantees a juicy bite.
Marinating Time: Don’t skip the marinade! Marinating the chicken for at least 10 minutes builds flavor and ensures moist chicken throughout this high protein honey garlic butter chicken dish.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become gummy and will not hold up well in the creamy sauce.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze components separately if you want your meals to last longer while retaining freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to streamline their meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which not only builds incredible flavor but also saves you time on the day of cooking. Additionally, prepare the mac and cheese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, store each component separately in airtight containers, and assemble just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken and sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything over low heat for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh chicken breasts for a lean protein source, or use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture. Look for meat that is firm and has no visible dark spots or discoloration. Fresh is always best!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To preserve the deliciousness of your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. This keeps the flavors vibrant and ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze this dish?
Very! To freeze, separate the chicken and mac & cheese into individual airtight containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as it heats.
What should I do if my mac and cheese sauce is too thick?
If your mac and cheese sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little more heavy cream or milk to the sauce, stirring it over low heat until you reach that desired creamy consistency. This step ensures every bite is luscious, just like it should be!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have food allergies, make sure to check for any ingredients that could be an issue, like dairy in the cheese and cream. You can also customize this dish by using gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten. Always read labels while shopping to stay safe!
How do I make this dish suitable for meal prep?
To make the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese perfect for meal prep, divide the portions into individual containers before refrigerating or freezing. This makes it easy to grab a satisfying meal on busy days. Plus, the flavors often intensify, making it even tastier!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: Cube the chicken breasts and marinate with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken, and cook for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley.
- Prepare the Mac and Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, sauté minced garlic, then add heavy cream and bring to a gentle bubble. Mix in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until the sauce is smooth.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stir and let absorb flavors for 5 minutes. Fold in the honey garlic butter chicken until well combined.
- Serve or Store: Serve warm, garnished with parsley, or let cool and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
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