High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and protein-packed comfort lunch meal, this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese is the perfect dish. It combines tender, flavorful chicken with creamy mac and cheese, all enhanced by a rich honey garlic butter sauce. This dish is a satisfying balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, making it a great option for a post-workout meal or a hearty family dinner.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this dish step by step, including expert tips, creative twists, and presentation ideas to make your mac and cheese extra special.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Every ingredient in this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese contributes to the dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

Chicken Breast – A lean source of protein that makes the dish filling and nutritious.
Honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Garlic – Enhances the depth of flavor with a fragrant, slightly spicy taste.
Butter – Gives the dish a rich, velvety texture and enhances the sauce’s flavor.
Macaroni Pasta – The base of the dish, providing a chewy and satisfying bite.
Cheddar Cheese – Creates a creamy, sharp, and tangy cheese sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor to balance the creaminess.
Milk and Heavy Cream – Provide a smooth and creamy texture to the cheese sauce.
Flour – Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Olive Oil – Used to cook the chicken and prevent sticking.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.

Preparation Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients of “High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese”

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Mac and Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for extra depth of flavor)

Step-by-Step “High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese’ Cooking Instructions with Expert Tips

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Drizzle in the honey and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Expert Tip: To ensure tender chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from heat once it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Expert Tip: Rinse the pasta with warm water after draining to prevent it from sticking together.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder if using.

Expert Tip: Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can make the sauce grainy.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Gently fold in the honey garlic butter chicken.
Cook for another minute until everything is well combined and heated through.

Presentation Tips

Serve in a deep bowl for a cozy and inviting presentation.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flavor and texture.
Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Creative Twists

Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for some heat.
Veggie Boost – Stir in spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crispy texture.
Bacon Lovers’ Edition – Add crispy bacon bits for an extra smoky flavor.

Pro Tip for Customization

For a lower-carb version, swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles while keeping the same creamy sauce and flavorful chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While elbow macaroni works great, you can use penne, rigatoni, or shell pasta for a different texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Can I make “High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese” ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except the final mixing step. Store the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, just toss it in the honey garlic butter sauce before adding it to the mac and cheese.

How do I make “High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese” higher in protein?

To boost the protein content, you can add grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even an extra serving of cheese.

Conclusion

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist. Packed with protein, creamy cheese, and a sweet-savory garlic butter sauce, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Try out different variations and enjoy a homemade mac and cheese like never before!