This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s perfect for various occasions, whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead. The unique blend of honey and garlic adds a sweet and savory touch, making this recipe stand out as a nutritious comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Protein: This dish features chicken breasts, ensuring you get a healthy dose of protein in every serving.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates traditional mac and cheese.
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this meal can be made quickly without sacrificing taste or quality.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it warm for dinner or prepare it in advance for easy meal prep; it’s delicious any way you enjoy it!
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy mac and cheese makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make the cooking process smooth and efficient, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large bowl
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Pot for boiling pasta
Importance of Each Tool
- Large bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly with all the spices.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and combining flavors without needing multiple pans.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for spices and oils, which is key to achieving the right flavor balance.
Ingredients
This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken paired with creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort meal with a nutritious twist. Juicy, flavorful chicken meets rich, cheesy pasta for a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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
How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the marinated chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Reduce heat to low and add butter, honey, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is coated.
Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add butter to deglaze over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and let it gently bubble.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Stir in mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking.
Step 6: Combine
Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce from step four. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so that all flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Serve & Store
Enjoy your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese warm! Alternatively, divide into four airtight containers for easy meal prep throughout the week.
How to Serve High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Serving your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance the flavors of this dish.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach: Serve the chicken and mac on a bed of fresh spinach for added nutrients and color.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Pair with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
With a Side of Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: The crunchiness of broccoli complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon before roasting for a zesty side.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle over the top for an oniony bite that elevates the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: A classic garnish that adds vibrancy to your plate.
In a Family-Style Platter
- Large Serving Dish: Combine everything in a large dish for a communal feel, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
How to Perfect High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
To master this recipe, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken, high-quality cheese, and real butter make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Aim for juicy pieces by checking doneness at 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or fontina for unique flavors in your mac and cheese.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps retain moisture for juicier bites.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference for perfect seasoning.
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Best Side Dishes for High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Pairing sides with your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken can enhance the meal. Here are some fantastic side options:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery delight that complements both chicken and mac & cheese beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crisp slaw adds refreshing crunch and balances out the creaminess of the main dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with savory flavors, adding a touch of sweetness to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a nice tangy contrast.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works well alongside savory chicken and rich pasta.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned zucchini offers a fresh taste that enhances your meal without weighing it down.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marination: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 10 minutes.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for a golden brown color and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).
- Not Deglazing the Pan: Forgetting to deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken means missing out on rich flavors. Use butter and garlic to scrape up those tasty bits.
- Underseasoning the Mac & Cheese: A bland cheese sauce can ruin the dish. Be generous with salt and spices like paprika and garlic powder.
- Using Cold Pasta: Adding cold pasta to a hot cheese sauce can affect its creaminess. Ensure your pasta is warm or freshly cooked before combining.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and freshness.
Freezing High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with dates.
- Best when consumed within 2-3 months.
Reheating High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese:
What makes this high-protein honey garlic butter chicken healthy?
This recipe uses lean chicken breasts, which are high in protein and low in fat, making it a nutritious option compared to traditional comfort foods.
Can I use different types of cheese for mac & cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors while keeping that creamy texture.
How can I customize my high-protein honey garlic butter chicken?
You can add vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just divide into portions before refrigerating or freezing.
Final Thoughts
This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese is not just tasty; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. From weeknight dinners to meal prepping, you can’t go wrong. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or trying different cheeses, and enjoy every comforting bite!
High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Indulge in the rich flavors of High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, a dish that effortlessly marries tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, ensuring you enjoy a fulfilling and nutritious meal any day of the week. The sweet and savory notes of honey and garlic elevate classic mac and cheese, making it a delightful comfort food option that even kids will love. In just 45 minutes, you can create a hearty dish that promises to satisfy your cravings while providing a healthy dose of protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts (cubed)
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Marinate the cubed chicken in olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
- Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked. Add butter, honey, and chopped parsley; mix well.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Pour in heavy cream and let it bubble gently.
- Stir in cheeses until melted and smooth; season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Boil elbow macaroni until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce; simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 930mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
