High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving something comforting yet packed with protein, this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is your go-to dish. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, and the balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish combines juicy, tender chicken with rich mac & cheese that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
• Packed with Protein: The chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, while the mac & cheese gives you all the creamy goodness you crave without any of the guilt.
• Comforting and Flavorful: This dish is the perfect blend of savory honey garlic butter chicken paired with indulgent, cheesy pasta. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the key players in this dish, which come together in such a way that every bite is absolutely irresistible!

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb all the flavors of the honey garlic butter sauce beautifully. For extra juiciness, you could use chicken thighs instead.
• Honey: Adds that touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory garlic butter. It’s also what helps create that gorgeous golden glaze on the chicken.
• Butter: The butter is essential for creating a rich, silky sauce that coats the chicken and brings out the honey garlic flavor in every bite.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is what gives this sauce its bold, savory kick. Don’t skimp on it; garlic is the heart of the flavor profile!
• Mac & Cheese: A classic mac & cheese base—whether you go for store-bought or homemade—adds a creamy, comforting element to the meal. For an extra protein boost, you can add some cottage cheese or Greek yogurt to your mac & cheese mixture.
• Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect balance of sharp and creamy textures for the mac & cheese.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and maybe a little paprika or Italian seasoning for the chicken and the mac & cheese will tie everything together perfectly.

Variations

If you’re feeling like switching things up, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to your mac & cheese for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha over the chicken for a bit of heat to complement the sweetness of the honey.
• Different Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, swap it out for turkey breasts, pork chops, or even grilled shrimp for a different protein option.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, nutritional yeast, and vegan cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option.

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

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little paprika. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter if needed, and then toss in your minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add in the honey and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, then return the chicken to the pan and coat it in the sauce. Let the chicken soak in all that deliciousness for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and glaze the chicken perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare the Mac & Cheese

While the chicken is cooking, boil your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. In a separate saucepan, melt some butter and stir in flour to make a quick roux. Slowly whisk in milk, then add your shredded cheeses. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and mix well.

Step 4: Serve It All Together

To serve, plate the mac & cheese and top it with the honey garlic butter chicken. Drizzle any extra sauce from the pan over the chicken for even more flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, and you’re ready to dig in!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Butter Quality: Use good-quality butter for the sauce. It makes a big difference in the richness and flavor.
• Adjust the Honey: If you want a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more honey. If you like things on the savory side, tone it down a bit.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly, so be sure not to overcook them. They should be juicy and tender when you slice into them.
• Mac & Cheese Consistency: If your mac & cheese sauce feels too thick, simply add a bit more milk or even some chicken broth to loosen it up.

How to Serve

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is so satisfying that it stands beautifully on its own, but it can be paired with a few side dishes to round out the meal:

Side Dish:

Serve with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to add freshness and balance the richness of the dish.

Garnishes:

Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and even a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits to add texture and flavor.

Pairing Drinks:

A crisp, slightly acidic white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would pair wonderfully with the richness of this dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and mac & cheese separately in airtight containers. The chicken will last in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the mac & cheese will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze both the chicken and mac & cheese for up to 2 months. For the best results, freeze in individual portions, making it easier to reheat.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the mac & cheese has thickened too much, add a splash of milk to bring back its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, so feel free to swap them in for the chicken breasts. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, as they may take a little longer.

2. Can I use a store-bought mac & cheese mix?
While homemade mac & cheese tastes amazing, you can definitely use a store-bought mix to save time. Just be sure to add extra cheese and seasoning to boost the flavor.

3. How can I make the dish spicier?
To add a spicy twist, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the honey garlic sauce or add some hot sauce on top of the finished dish.

4. Can I make this recipe without butter?
If you need to avoid butter, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. The flavor will still be delicious, though it won’t have the same richness as the original.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is the ultimate combination of comfort and protein-packed goodness. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that will leave everyone at the table smiling. Give it a try tonight—you won’t be disappointed!

Print