“Can comfort food also be healthy? Absolutely! My High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese is the answer to satisfying your cravings while keeping your nutrition goals intact. This dish marries succulent chicken, glazed in a delicious honey garlic butter sauce, with cheesy, velvety mac and cheese that brings back those beloved childhood memories—only better! Not only is this meal a protein-packed powerhouse, perfect for fueling your active days, but it also features quick prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!”
Why is this dish a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The honey garlic butter creates a sweet and savory glaze that elevates the chicken to new heights.
Creamy Comfort: Paired with the creamy mac and cheese, this dish guarantees a delightful texture that comforts every bite.
High Protein Boost: Packed with protein-rich chicken, it keeps you fueled for whatever life throws your way.
Quick and Easy: With a straightforward recipe, even on the busiest days, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for making ahead, this dish reheats beautifully; consider whipping up a batch alongside Honey Lime Chicken for varied flavors when meal prepping!
High Protein Honey Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for a deliciously healthy dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; chicken thighs could be used for added juiciness.
- Olive Oil – Enhances flavor while marinating; you can switch it with any oil you prefer.
- Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
- Smoked Paprika – Introduces a smoky flavor; regular paprika or a bit of chipotle can work too.
- Garlic Powder – A concentrated garlic flavor; feel free to swap with fresh garlic, adjusting as necessary.
- Dried Parsley – Adds earthiness and color; consider thyme or oregano as alternatives.
- Salt – Elevates overall taste; adjust for dietary needs.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; white pepper is a fine substitute.
- Avocado Oil – Promotes crispiness when cooking; any high smoke point oil serves well.
- Butter – Brings richness and enhances flavor; opt for dairy-free butter for a non-dairy version.
- Honey – Sweetens and balances the savory elements of the chicken; maple syrup is a vegan-friendly substitute.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley – For garnish and a fresh touch; cilantro can be used as another option.
For the Mac & Cheese
- Heavy Cream – Creates a creamy base for the sauce; half-and-half or unsweetened non-dairy cream works in a pinch.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese – Essential for that rich, cheesy texture; freshly grated offers the smoothest sauce.
- Elbow Macaroni – Main carbohydrate; cooking al dente enhances texture; gluten-free pasta is a great substitute.
This dish, featuring High Protein Honey Chicken, promises a delightful culinary adventure that your family will crave time and time again!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken until evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cover the bowl and let it marinate at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare your cooking equipment.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of avocado oil. Once the pan is hot, place the marinated chicken in the skillet, cooking for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C). Reduce the heat to low, add butter and honey, stirring gently to coat the chicken in the delicious glaze.
Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet after removing the chicken, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté a bit more minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle bubble over medium-low heat, allowing the cream to heat up and thicken slightly before adding the cheeses.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Gradually stir in the freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the skillet, along with more smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. This should take about 3-4 minutes, creating the perfect backdrop for your mac and cheese.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to prevent it from sticking together, ensuring a delightful texture for your creamy mac and cheese.
Step 6: Combine
Add the drained macaroni directly into the cheese sauce in the skillet, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes over low heat, keeping it warm and melding the flavors beautifully while you prepare to serve the dish.
Step 7: Serve & Store
Plate the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken alongside a generous serving of creamy mac and cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, or refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days—perfect for quick and hearty meal prep!
What to Serve with High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese
Transform your delightful chicken and creamy pasta into a complete meal with these irresistible pairings.
-
Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread offers a delightful crunch, making every bite more satisfying and perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
-
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color while balancing the richness of the mac and cheese; drizzling with lemon juice brightens the entire dish.
-
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast and helps cleanse the palate between bites of comfort food.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add a touch of sweetness and depth, rounding out your meal with earthy flavors that enhance the sweetness of the honey garlic chicken.
-
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown, crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an extra bit of deliciousness, perfect for dipping in the honey garlic sauce.
Balance comfort and nutrition perfectly with a glass of iced tea or a bubbly lemon soda to cleanse your palate, making every bite memorable!
Storage Tips for High Protein Honey Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, preserving the delicious flavors of the honey chicken and mac and cheese.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and mac separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. This helps maintain quality and freshness.
- Thawing: To enjoy your frozen High Protein Honey Chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for a satisfying meal.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring all those delicious flavors deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the mac and cheese sauce and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently on the stove while stirring in a splash of milk to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, simply cook the marinated chicken and combine it with the prepped mac and cheese, finishing it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s all about saving time while enjoying every delicious bite!
Expert Tips for High Protein Honey Chicken
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor greatly; dried herbs may not impart the same vibrant taste in your honey chicken.
-
Marinate Well: Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to ensure the honey garlic butter gets deeply infused, avoiding blandness.
-
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) for safe consumption.
-
Pasta Perfection: Cook elbow macaroni just until al dente; draining and rinsing helps prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.
-
Reheat Smartly: When reheating, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore its creamy consistency without drying it out.
-
Experiment with Cheese: For a unique flavor twist in your High Protein Honey Chicken dish, try mixing in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for more depth!
High Protein Honey Chicken: Customization Ideas
Feel free to personalize your dish with these delightful variations that awaken the senses and inspire creativity in the kitchen!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy comfort meal.
-
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mac and cheese for an extra kick that complements the sweet chicken beautifully.
-
Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to create a unique flavor profile that keeps your dinner exciting.
-
Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of dried parsley in the chicken marinade; it will enhance the aromatic quality of your dish.
-
Sweet Alternative: For a vegan-friendly option, replace honey with maple syrup for a delightful twist that still captures the essence of sweetness.
-
Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the mac and cheese for added nutrition and color; the greens pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
-
Extra Crispy: Coat the chicken in a light layer of panko breadcrumbs before cooking to achieve a crunchy texture that elevates your dish.
-
Meal Prep Friendly: Scale your recipe up! Make extra portions of both chicken and mac & cheese for easy meal prep. Pair with Honey Feta Chicken for a delightful variety through the week.
Let your imagination run wild, and you’ll create a high-protein dish that’s a delicious celebration of flavors, sure to please the whole family!
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the juiciest results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and have a pinkish hue. If you prefer a richer flavor, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative as they contain more fat, making them extra moist.
How should I store leftovers of this dish?
Very easy! Store your leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to keep the chicken and mac cheese at their best flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze the High Protein Honey Chicken?
You can! To freeze, separate the chicken and mac and cheese into airtight containers. Store them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to revive its creaminess.
What should I do if my mac and cheese sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your cheese sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit of milk or cream, slowly adding until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures your pasta remains creamy and delicious, just as you want it!
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies with this recipe?
Absolutely! This dish contains various allergens, including dairy and gluten, from the cheese and macaroni. For lactose-free options, substitute the dairy ingredients for non-dairy alternatives like dairy-free butter and cream. Also, use gluten-free pasta to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
To guarantee a perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer! Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C). This method ensures you avoid any worries regarding undercooked chicken while still retaining its juiciness and flavor.
High Protein Honey Chicken: A Sweet, Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil, and then add marinated chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes until golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C). Reduce heat, add butter and honey, stirring to coat.
- Make the Mac & Cheese Sauce: After removing the chicken, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, heat until bubbly, then add cheeses.
- Melt Cheese: Gradually stir in freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese, along with more smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Cook Pasta: In a pot of salted water, cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-9 minutes). Drain and rinse to prevent sticking.
- Combine: Add drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until coated. Simmer for 5 minutes over low heat.
- Serve & Store: Plate chicken with mac and cheese, garnish with parsley. Serve immediately or refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
