High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is one of my all-time favorites. It’s the perfect blend of juicy chicken, rich flavors, and creamy goodness that makes it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Picture this: tender chicken glazed with honey garlic butter served alongside cheesy mac and cheese. You get the comfort of classic comfort food with a nutritious twist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family Favorite: With its delicious flavor and creamy texture, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• High in Protein: Packed with protein from chicken and cheese, it keeps you satisfied for longer.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Versatile: The flavors are so good, they can be mixed and matched with other sides or veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already.

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Mac & Cheese

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition!
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to give a kick to your honey garlic sauce.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine your cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial because marinating not only adds layers of flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy. Give it about 10 minutes to soak up all those delicious spices while you prepare your other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your marinated chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes until it’s fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, reduce the heat to low and stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley. This will coat your chicken in a sweet, buttery glaze that’s simply irresistible!

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese

In the same skillet (don’t waste that flavor!), add more butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden and fragrant—this step enhances depth of flavor. Then pour in heavy cream and let it bubble gently; this creates a luscious base for your cheese sauce.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once your cream is bubbling nicely, stir in mozzarella and cheddar along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy. This step is where all that cheesy goodness comes together!

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and rinse under cold water; this prevents overcooking. The pasta needs to hold its shape when mixed with that rich cheese sauce.

Step 6: Combine

Add your cooked pasta into that heavenly cheese sauce! Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes so all those flavors can meld beautifully together. Trust me; this is where magic happens!

Step 7: Serve & Store

Serve warm as an indulgent dinner or divide into airtight containers if you’re meal prepping for later in the week. Either way, enjoy every creamy bite!

Now you’re ready to dive into this delicious High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese! Happy cooking!

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

Cooking this comforting dish can be a breeze with a few handy tips in your back pocket!

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes allows the spices to infuse deeply, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley not only elevate the taste but also provide vibrant color and nutrients that enhance the overall healthiness of your meal.
• Monitor Heat Levels: Cooking over medium heat ensures that your chicken gets a nice golden-brown crust without burning, while also allowing it to cook through evenly.
• Don’t Skip Rinsing Pasta: Rinsing cooked macaroni prevents it from sticking together, ensuring each piece is enveloped in creamy cheese sauce when served.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Adding cream cheese or gouda can create different flavor profiles that keep this dish exciting.

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

Serving this scrumptious dish is all about presentation! Here are some delightful ways to showcase your creation and make mealtime even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes will add a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green element and is rich in vitamins, providing a nutritious contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with lemon vinaigrette serves as a refreshing companion that cuts through the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini bring out their natural sweetness while adding texture and flavor variety to your plate.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. Its buttery goodness pairs wonderfully with both the chicken and mac & cheese.

Now you’re ready to whip up this delicious High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese! Enjoy every bite, whether it’s for family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week, ensuring that you always have a nutritious and satisfying meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and mac & cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers, separating the chicken and mac & cheese for optimal texture.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out your leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave: place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other proteins in the High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?

Absolutely! While chicken is featured here, you can substitute it with turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make my mac & cheese creamier?

For an extra creamy texture in your High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk when reheating. You can also mix in additional cheese just before serving!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free as well.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This hearty meal pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. It’s great on its own but adding some greens can enhance its nutritional value!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table while still being nutritious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and share your variations! Happy cooking!