This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe is one of those comforting meals that’s both satisfying and packed with protein—perfect for when you want something hearty yet a little indulgent without going overboard. I love how the honey-garlic butter sauce gives the chicken such a rich, savory-sweet kick, and pairing it with creamy mac & cheese makes it a total crowd-pleaser. You’ll find that it’s surprisingly simple to make, even on a busy weeknight, but it still feels special enough to serve to guests.
When I first tried this combination, I was hooked immediately. The mac & cheese here isn’t your typical boxed stuff; it’s creamy with just the right amount of garlic and smoked paprika to give it a subtle, cozy warmth. This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe works brilliantly for meal prep too because you get a balanced, filling dish that reheats really well and keeps you fueled. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be on your rotation all year round.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein Goodness: The chicken packed with protein keeps you full and energized for hours.
- Flavorful Sauces: Honey garlic butter adds a mouthwatering depth, while smoked paprika in the mac & cheese gives it a cozy twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making weekday lunches and dinners hassle-free and delicious.
- Comfort & Nutrition Combined: Finally, a dish that satisfies your cravings without sacrificing wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe plays a key role in layering flavors and textures, so picking quality items will make a big difference. I always recommend fresh garlic and good cheese for that extra creamy, authentic taste.
- Chicken breasts: Cubed chicken cooks evenly and soaks up the marinade wonderfully for juicy results.
- Olive oil: Great for marinating—adds a mild fruitiness and helps the spices stick.
- Garlic (fresh cloves): Minced garlic infuses both the chicken and mac & cheese with bold, fragrant flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the entire dish without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Pairs with fresh garlic for a layered garlicky punch.
- Dried parsley: Brings a touch of freshness; you can swap with fresh parsley too.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning—balancing all flavors perfectly.
- Avocado oil or preferred cooking oil: Great for high-heat cooking without burning.
- Butter (unsalted): Adds velvety richness to both the chicken sauce and the mac & cheese.
- Honey: Balances the savory garlic with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end for a fresh kick and pretty presentation.
- Heavy cream: Transforms the mac & cheese into a luscious, creamy comfort dish.
- Mozzarella cheese (freshly grated): Melts smoothly for that gooey pull you want in mac & cheese.
- Cheddar cheese (freshly grated): Adds sharpness and classic mac & cheese flavor.
- Elbow macaroni: Cooked al dente so it holds up perfectly when combined with the sauce.
Variations
I love how flexible this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe is—sometimes I like to tweak a few things depending on my mood or what I have in the fridge. Don’t be afraid to make it your own; a few simple swaps can keep it exciting.
- Protein Swap: I’ve swapped chicken breasts for turkey breast or even tofu for a plant-based twist—both work surprisingly well.
- Dairy-Free Variation: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the mac & cheese creamy without the dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the chicken marinade turns this into a spicy-sweet delight.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach alongside the mac & cheese for extra nutrients and color.
How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken to Infuse Flavor
Start by combining the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss it well so every piece is coated evenly. I usually let mine marinate for about 10 minutes while I prep other ingredients—it’s enough time for those flavors to settle in beautifully without getting overwhelming.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your marinated chicken. Let it cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly golden. Once cooked, reduce the heat to low and add butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir gently so the butter melts and coats every piece—this step gives it that rich, sticky, honey garlic glaze everyone loves. Then, set the chicken aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Mac & Cheese Sauce
Using the same skillet (hello, extra flavor!), melt butter over medium heat to deglaze the pan—scraping up any browned bits from the chicken adds amazing depth. Toss in minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble lightly.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Season
Stir in freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until everything melts together into a dreamy, smooth sauce. This step is where patience pays off—you want a silky texture, not a clumpy mess.
Step 5: Cook and Combine the Pasta
Cook your elbow macaroni according to the package until al dente—be sure not to overcook it, so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and keep it firm. Add the pasta to the cheese sauce and let it simmer together on low heat for about 5 minutes. This lets the flavors marry and the sauce thicken just right.
Step 6: Bring It All Together and Serve
Finally, plate the creamy mac & cheese alongside or under the honey garlic butter chicken, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and enjoy immediately. This combination is pure comfort food with a protein-packed punch. Plus, leftovers heat up like a dream!
Pro Tips for Making High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Marinate Briefly but Effectively: I found that marinating for 10 minutes is enough to infuse flavor without the chicken getting overwhelmed or mushy.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting; fresh cheese equals creamier mac & cheese every time.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process so it won’t turn mushy when simmered in the sauce.
- Low Heat Simmering: Simmer the cheese sauce and pasta on low to avoid curdling or burning, giving a perfectly smooth finish.
How to Serve High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
I like to finish this dish with a handful of freshly chopped parsley—it adds a pop of color and a mild herbaceous brightness that balances the richness. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra smoked paprika on top for that warm, smoky aroma right before serving.
Side Dishes
Since this meal is already quite filling, I usually keep sides light—steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complement it really well. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also add a nice earthy crunch without overpowering the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, I sometimes serve the chicken sliced over a bed of the mac & cheese, then drizzle a little extra honey garlic butter sauce on top and sprinkle toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts for crunch. It feels fancy but is still easy to execute, making guests think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
My go-to method is to let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, which is perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during busy weeks.
Freezing
If I want to save some for later, I freeze portions without the fresh parsley garnish—add that fresh when reheating. The chicken and mac & cheese freeze really well if sealed tightly and can keep in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the cheesiness, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, the microwave works fine—just keep the power moderate to avoid drying out the chicken or curdling the cheese sauce.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for mac & cheese, you can substitute with penne, shells, or even rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente to hold up well in the cheese sauce without getting mushy.
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Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in airtight containers in the fridge for several days and reheats easily while retaining its creamy texture and flavor.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can! Swap the butter and heavy cream for coconut oil and full-fat coconut milk or another dairy-free cream alternative. Use vegan cheese shreds to keep it creamy. It won’t taste exactly the same but still delicious!
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What’s the best way to avoid burning the garlic?
Cook garlic over medium heat and watch it closely—once it starts turning golden (about 2-3 minutes), it’s time to add your liquids or next ingredients. Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so stirring constantly helps.
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How can I add more veggies to this meal?
Simple! Add steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach either into the cheese sauce or on the side. It’s a great way to boost nutrition without changing the recipe’s core flavors.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe brings together comforting, creamy mac & cheese and protein-packed chicken in a way that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s become my go-to when I want something quick but impressive, whether I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week. I know you’ll enjoy how easy it is to pull together and how reliably delicious it turns out every time—give it a try and see why it’s one of my kitchen favorites!
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High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a delicious, comforting meal featuring tender marinated chicken coated in a savory honey garlic butter sauce paired with a creamy, cheesy macaroni infused with smoked paprika and garlic flavors. Perfect for a hearty dinner or meal prep, this recipe combines the richness of buttery chicken with a luscious homemade mac and cheese that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 3 chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking the Chicken:
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil or oil of choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Mac & Cheese:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Let the mixture marinate for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly golden. Reduce the heat to low and add butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir gently to melt the butter and coat the chicken evenly with the honey garlic butter sauce. Once combined, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Mac & Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium heat to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden but not burnt. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle bubble to start thickening the sauce.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheeses along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water briefly to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce in the skillet and toss gently. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly around the pasta.
- Serve & Store: Serve the creamy mac and cheese alongside or topped with the honey garlic butter chicken. Enjoy warm for best flavor. Leftovers can be divided into four airtight containers and refrigerated for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken helps enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; cook it just until fragrant and golden.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and texture in the sauce.
- Rinsing pasta under cold water stops cooking and prevents over-softness.
- Adjust seasoning for salt and pepper according to personal taste before serving.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 50 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
