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 your new go-to dish. Combining tender, flavorful chicken coated in a luscious honey garlic butter glaze with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese, this meal is quick to prepare and delivers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for meal prep, this recipe brings irresistible flavors and a satisfying high-protein kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• High Protein Boost: Uses lean chicken breast and cheese for muscle-fueling benefits.
• Comfort Food Classic: Combines indulgent mac and cheese with flavorful chicken.
• Kid-Friendly Flavors: Sweet honey and garlic appeal to all ages.
• One-Pan Option: Minimal cleanup with straightforward cooking steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese recipe is simple yet essential, working together to create wonderful layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy cheese to the savory garlic and butter, every component shines through.

• Chicken breast: Lean and high in protein, it’s the perfect base for this dish.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the garlic’s sharpness.
• Butter: Creates a rich, smooth texture in the sauce and mac and cheese.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic, flavorful punch.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape for creamy, cheesy satisfaction.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it makes the mac and cheese irresistibly creamy.
• Milk: Adds creaminess without heaviness.
• Olive oil: For cooking the chicken, providing a mild fruitiness.
• Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the ingredients.
• Parsley (optional): Fresh green garnish that brightens the plate.

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

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs, taste preferences, or whatever you have in the fridge. Feel free to get creative and explore different twists!

• Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the honey garlic sauce for some heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and boost protein with plant-based cheese.
• Different Cheese Blends: Mix cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for extra melty texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the butter sauce for aromatic depth.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Mac & Cheese

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in milk, and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Toss the macaroni in the cheese sauce and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about one minute. Stir in honey and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the garlic beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the honey garlic butter sauce to coat every piece with that sticky, sweet glaze. Plate the cheesy mac and cheese alongside or underneath the chicken, then drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

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

• Chicken Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Choice: Use sharp cheddar for more pronounced flavor and excellent melting.
• Garlic Freshness: Fresh minced garlic brings the best aroma – avoid pre-minced jar garlic if possible.
• Honey Quality: Use raw or pure honey for a richer, natural sweetness.
• Temperature Control: Cook chicken over medium-high heat to get a golden crust without drying it out.

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

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a vibrant green contrast both visually and flavor-wise. A light drizzle of extra honey or a squeeze of lemon juice can also add a nice bright finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for freshness and balance. Roasted asparagus or a simple cucumber salad also complement the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with chicken slices fanned over the mac and cheese, or layer the chicken atop the pasta in a rustic casserole style for a cozy family-style presentation. For meal prep, pack the elements separately to keep textures fresh until heated.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and mac and cheese separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess without drying out the chicken or cheese sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, though they may take slightly longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap standard elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta alternative or use cooked quinoa for a grain-free option.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based cheese and milk alternative to achieve similar creaminess.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe serves about 4 generous portions, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for the next day.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

You can use any small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne, which also hold cheese sauce well and work perfectly in this dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a cozy, flavorful meal like this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, packed with nutrition, and fully satisfying for the whole family. Give this recipe a try tonight, and you might just find your new favorite comfort food that checks all the boxes—flavor, protein, and ease.

Related Posts

• Why Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Is a Must-Try
• Easy Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot Recipe
• Why Delicious Spinach Tomato Pasta Is a Must-Try

Print