High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

Looking for a comforting yet protein-packed meal that will leave you full and satisfied? This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta. Not only does it satisfy all your cravings, but it’s also a great option for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed: The star of this dish, the honey garlic butter chicken, is a fantastic source of lean protein. Paired with the creamy mac & cheese, it’s the ultimate power duo.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: This isn’t your average chicken and mac & cheese combo. The honey garlic butter sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor that takes this classic comfort meal to the next level.
• Quick and Easy: You’ll be able to put this together in just 30 minutes. It’s an ideal dish for those evenings when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here are the key ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein, juicy, and perfect for searing. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe.
• Honey: The sweetness of honey balances out the savory garlic butter sauce, making this chicken super flavorful.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic depth to the dish. It’s a must in the honey garlic butter sauce.
• Butter: Rich and creamy, butter is the secret to making that heavenly garlic butter sauce.
• Macaroni Pasta: The foundation of your mac & cheese. Small elbow macaroni is ideal, but feel free to use any short pasta you like.
• Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a creamy, melty mac & cheese. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite cheese varieties.
• Milk & Cream: Used to make the mac & cheese base extra creamy and smooth.
• Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper for seasoning. You can also add some paprika for a touch of smokiness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.

Variations

Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few ways to shake things up:

Cheese Variations: If you want to experiment with different cheeses, try Gruyère for a nutty flavor, or add some Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick.

Spicy Chicken: For those who love some heat, toss a bit of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter sauce, or add chili flakes on top of the chicken.

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh to make a satisfying vegetarian dish. For the mac & cheese, you could try adding roasted vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli for some extra flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for the mac & cheese and make sure the butter and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

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

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a pan over medium-high heat with a little oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, cook the chicken on each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in honey and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly, then return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for a couple more minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Mac & Cheese

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in the shredded cheese and continue to whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Toss the cooked macaroni into the sauce and mix until well coated.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice the honey garlic butter chicken into strips and serve it alongside the creamy mac & cheese. Drizzle some extra honey garlic butter sauce over the chicken for added flavor, and garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s cooking. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so make sure it’s just golden and juicy when done.
• Customizing the Mac & Cheese Sauce: If you prefer a thicker mac & cheese, add a bit more cheese or let it cook longer. For a creamier version, add a splash more cream.
• Perfectly Melty Cheese: Grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce.

How to Serve

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is hearty and filling all on its own, but there are a few ways to elevate it:

• Green Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the rich mac & cheese and chicken.
• Garlic Bread: For extra comfort, serve with some crispy, buttery garlic bread on the side.
• Veggies: Consider adding some roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores well for a couple of days. Store the chicken and mac & cheese separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and warm the mac & cheese in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.

Freezing

Both the chicken and mac & cheese freeze well. If freezing, store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the mac & cheese in a pot with a little extra milk to keep it creamy. Reheat the chicken gently in a pan with some of the leftover sauce to keep it juicy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They are more tender and juicy than breasts, and they’ll absorb the honey garlic butter sauce beautifully.

2. Can I make this dish without using cream?
Yes! You can make the mac & cheese without cream by substituting it with extra milk or using a non-dairy milk like almond milk. It will still be delicious!

3. How do I make the mac & cheese less rich?
If you want to cut back on the richness, use low-fat milk and cheese, or reduce the amount of butter in the mac & cheese sauce. It will still taste great, just a little lighter.

4. Can I add vegetables to the mac & cheese?
Definitely! Add some roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach to the mac & cheese to boost its nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a game-changer! It’s a perfect balance of rich, cheesy comfort and protein-packed chicken, making it a dish you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a meal prep option, this recipe is as satisfying as it is simple to make. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and filling!

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