As I flipped through my recipe book, a delightful flavor combo suddenly jumped out at me: honey garlic butter chicken with creamy mac and cheese! This isn’t just any weeknight dinner; it’s a high-protein delight that’s easy on the budget and even easier on those hectic evenings. Imagine tender chicken coated in a glossy honey and garlic glaze, served alongside rich mac and cheese that’s bound to comfort your soul. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or gathering friends for a cozy dinner, this dish guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Are you ready to dive into this scrumptious adventure and elevate your dinner game? Let’s get started!
Why is this dish a game changer?
Comforting Fusion: This recipe combines two crowd favorites—honey garlic butter chicken and creamy mac and cheese, creating a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
High-Protein Delight: Packed with protein, it’s perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to fuel their bodies healthily, making it a satisfying meal option.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing common ingredients like chicken and pasta means this recipe won’t break the bank, making it attainable for all home cooks.
Meal Prep Superstar: Ideal for prepping ahead, you can store leftovers easily, taking the stress out of future meals. It’s the ultimate way to stay nourished without the fuss, inviting you to explore other delicious recipes like Sticky Garlic Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken for more tasty inspiration!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients
• The secret to deliciousness starts here!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, cubed for quick cooking.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and helps marinate the chicken for flavorful goodness; any oil can be substituted.
- Garlic (minced) – Provides an aromatic touch that elevates the marinade’s depth.
- Smoked Paprika – Imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Garlic Powder – Complements the fresh garlic and boosts the overall garlic profile.
- Dried Parsley – Adds a hint of freshness; can be swapped with fresh parsley if desired.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
For Cooking the Chicken
- Avocado Oil or Oil of Choice – Used for cooking to prevent sticking and ensure a perfect sear.
- Butter – Enriches the chicken with added flavor and moisture.
- Honey – Offers a touch of sweetness, enhancing the caramelization of your chicken.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley – For garnish; it adds an appealing touch of color and freshness.
For the Mac & Cheese
- Butter – Serves as the base for the cheese sauce, adding richness.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances the flavor profile of the creamy cheese sauce.
- Heavy Cream – Ensures the sauce is rich and delightful, perfect for a comforting dish.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella – Melts beautifully, contributing a stretchy texture.
- Freshly Grated Cheddar Cheese – Adds a sharp flavor necessary for classic mac and cheese.
- Elbow Macaroni – The pasta foundation, cooked al dente for the perfect bite.
- Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper – These seasonings bring the cheese sauce to life.
With these ingredients gathered, you’re just a skip and a hop away from creating a high protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese that you’ll want on your dinner table time and time again!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to deepen the flavors while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of avocado oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, lower the heat, then mix in butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley, coating the chicken in a glossy glaze.
Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese
In the same skillet with the remaining chicken juices, add a tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, creating a luscious base for the creamy mac and cheese.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Lower the heat further and stir in the freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the bubbling cream. Continue mixing until the cheese melts completely, yielding a smooth and luxurious sauce. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor profile of your mac and cheese.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While preparing the cheese sauce, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes around 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
Step 6: Combine
Carefully add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce in the skillet, allowing it to simmer together for about 5 minutes. Stir well to ensure that the macaroni is fully coated with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with the cheesy goodness that pairs beautifully with the high protein honey garlic butter chicken.
Step 7: Serve & Store
Spoon generous servings of the high protein honey garlic butter chicken alongside a helping of creamy mac and cheese onto plates. You can enjoy this comforting dish warm or allow it to cool before distributing it into airtight containers for meal prep. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring delightful meals are just a reheating away!
How to Store and Freeze High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This high protein honey garlic butter chicken keeps well and remains delicious when reheated.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. This allows you to enjoy them fresh later on.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat. When reheating mac and cheese, add a splash of milk to revive its creamy texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out the chicken and mac and cheese for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and deliciousness.
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe, transforming it into something unique that fits your taste!
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Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with juicy thighs for richer flavor; they stay tender and moist during cooking, taking the dish to a whole new level.
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Different Pastas: Swap out elbow macaroni for shells, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter twist that adds a fun texture and shape to your mac and cheese.
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Cream Alternative: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream, providing a creamy sauce with less richness, while still satisfying your comfort cravings.
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Add Veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or even peas into the mac and cheese for added nutrients and color, turning your comforting dish into a wholesome feast that the whole family will love.
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the chicken marinade. This simple twist introduces an exciting layer of flavor, livening up your dinner experience.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the chicken marinade, providing a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness of honey beautifully. The contrasting flavors will elevate your dish impressively.
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Honey Delta: For a deeper flavor, try using maple syrup instead of honey. The subtle smokiness of maple syrup pairs wonderfully with garlic butter, creating a unique take on this classic combo.
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Gourmet Cheese Blend: Incorporate a blend of gouda or pepper jack along with mozzarella and cheddar for an indulgent and exciting cheese sauce, adding complexity to each gooey bite.
These variations invite you to explore delicious alternatives while keeping the savory essence of your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken intact. If you’re still looking for ideas, why not check out Cowboy Butter Chicken or Chick Shawarma Garlic for more mouthwatering inspiration? Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. Additionally, the mac and cheese can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, cool both components completely before refrigerating in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet and warm the mac and cheese gently, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, satisfying meals with minimal effort throughout your week!
What to Serve with High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?
Imagine the enticing aromas filling your kitchen as you prepare for a comforting feast that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Garlic Bread: Bursting with flavor and texture, warm garlic bread complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly. Each bite adds a delightful crunch alongside the silky sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright and nutritious, steamed broccoli delivers a fresh crunch that beautifully contrasts the rich chicken and cheesy goodness. The pop of green adds both color and health.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings a zesty element to your plate, balancing the rich flavors with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons. The freshness brightens every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers sweet, caramelized notes that enhance the honey garlic butter chicken. Their roasting brings out depth, rounding out the meal perfectly.
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Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add delightful texture and flavor to your dinner. The hearty, comforting nature of the beans pairs beautifully with both the chicken and mac and cheese.
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Herbed Quinoa: This protein-packed side is a fantastic complement, providing a light and fluffy texture that contrasts the creamy mac and cheese, enriching the meal with wholesome grains.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and lightly tangy, a glass of sparkling lemonade elevates your dining experience, cleansing your palate and enhancing the flavors of your comforting dish.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A warm chocolate chip cookie for dessert is a simple yet cherished way to finish your meal on a sweet note. The perfect balance of gooey chocolate and crisp edges will satisfy any sweet tooth!
Expert Tips for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
- Marinade Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor; longer is even better if you have time!
- Cheese Choice: Use freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar for the creamiest, most delicious mac and cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that hinder smooth melting.
- Watch the Heat: Keep the cheese sauce on low heat to prevent overheating; this will maintain its silky texture, ensuring it remains creamy.
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni al dente; it will continue to soften when mixed with the cheese sauce without becoming mushy.
- Reheat Right: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess in the mac and cheese, keeping this high protein honey garlic butter chicken dish as delightful as when you first made it!
- Safety First: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and plump. If you can see any dark spots or if it has a foul odor, it’s best to skip those. The breasts should have a nice pale color and feel firm to the touch.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers from the high protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty for a few days, ready to be reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I freeze this dish?
Certainly! To keep your meal ready for busy days, freeze the chicken and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to let everything cool down completely before sealing them. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to the mac and cheese for creaminess!
What should I do if the cheese sauce is too thick?
The more the merrier! If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than expected, don’t fret! You can stir in a bit of warm milk, half-and-half, or even chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously over low heat for the best results. This will help restore its creamy, dreamy texture!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, indeed! The high protein honey garlic butter chicken and mac and cheese is a meal prep superstar. Portion it into individual servings in airtight containers, and you’ll have delicious, easy meals ready for the week. Just remember to use them within 4 days if refrigerated or up to 2 months if frozen for the best flavor and quality.
Are there any allergen considerations for this dish?
Very important! Be cautious if anyone consuming this dish has dairy allergies, as the mac and cheese contains butter, heavy cream, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. For a dairy-free option, you can explore nut-based cheese alternatives or make a simple vegan macaroni with cashew cream and nutritional yeast. Enjoying delicious food should always include taking care of all dietary needs!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Dreamy Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to deepen the flavors while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of avocado oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for 10-15 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Mix in butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley, coating the chicken in a glossy glaze.
- In the same skillet with the remaining chicken juices, add a tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to bring the mixture to a gentle bubble.
- Stir in the freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the bubbling cream. Continue mixing until the cheese melts completely. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse to remove excess starch.
- Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce in the skillet, allowing it to simmer together for about 5 minutes. Stir well to coat the macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve the honey garlic butter chicken alongside creamy mac and cheese. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
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