Easy High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with protein, this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is an absolute winner. It brings together tender, flavorful chicken glazed in a luscious honey garlic butter sauce paired with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese that hits all the right notes. Quick to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty weekend feast. You’ll love the way the sweet and savory elements marry with rich cheese and a protein boost that keeps you energized and full.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Effortless: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Protein-Packed: Combines juicy chicken with protein-rich cheese and milk for a nutritious punch.
• Flavor Explosion: The honey garlic butter glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.
• Creamy Comfort: Rich mac and cheese brings smooth, comforting texture that any cheese lover will adore.
• Family-Friendly: Sure to please both kids and adults with familiar yet exciting flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering meal. Each component enhances the taste, texture, and overall appeal, making the dish delightfully balanced and creamy.

• Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, the star protein of the dish.
• Honey: Natural sweetness that perfectly complements garlic and butter in the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh, minced garlic brings bold aroma and flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the sauce and mac & cheese.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce beautifully.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, essential for that irresistible mac and cheese gooeyness.
• Milk: Creates a smooth, creamy cheese sauce base.
• Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to just the right consistency.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasons to balance and enhance all flavors.
• Parsley (optional): Fresh herb garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Its versatility makes it easy to adapt and experiment with.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the honey garlic butter sauce for some heat.
• Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in mozzarella or gouda with cheddar for more depth and creaminess.
• Whole Grain Pasta: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and nutrition.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for added color and vitamins.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add honey and stir to combine, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat evenly with the glaze.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

While the chicken cooks, boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside to prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Plate the cheesy macaroni, then top with the honey garlic butter chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give the sauce a fragrant and bright flavor unmatched by powders.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Keep the chicken juicy by monitoring closely and removing from heat when internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
• Stir Cheese Sauce Constantly: This helps prevent lumps and keeps the cheese sauce silky smooth.
• Choose Sharp Cheddar: Strong-flavored cheddar delivers a more pronounced, delicious cheese note.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.

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

Garnishes

Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or a light sprinkle of paprika add color, freshness, and a slight kick to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad to add texture, fiber, and balance to this rich, protein-packed meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken sliced over the mac and cheese in shallow bowls for an inviting, rustic look, or arrange bite-sized chicken pieces on the side for a family-style sharing platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked chicken and macaroni separately to preserve texture; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if the mac and cheese becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and tenderness, making the dish even juicier and flavorful.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s an excellent meal prep option because it reheats well and retains taste and texture even after a couple of days.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to make it lactose-friendly.

How can I make the mac and cheese from scratch without pre-shredded cheese?

Simply grate a block of sharp cheddar yourself for a fresher taste and better melt compared to pre-shredded cheese.

What’s the best way to thicken the cheese sauce if it’s too runny?

Make a little extra roux by whisking equal parts butter and flour, then slowly incorporate it into the sauce while heating until desired thickness is achieved.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a true comfort-food treasure that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Its quick preparation and balanced harmony of flavors will make it a cherished recipe in your rotation. So go ahead, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy every creamy, sweet, savory bite with your loved ones!

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