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High Protein Honey Chicken

High Protein Honey Chicken: A Sweet, Savory Delight

High Protein Honey Chicken offers a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors while promoting a protein-packed meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can be used for juiciness.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with any preferred oil.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika or chipotle can also work.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can swap with fresh garlic.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Consider thyme or oregano as alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust for dietary needs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper White pepper is a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil Any high smoke point oil works.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Dairy-free butter can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup is a vegan substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Chopped Parsley Cilantro can be used too.
For the Mac & Cheese
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or non-dairy cream can be used.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated offers the smoothest sauce.
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • large skillet
  • Colander
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  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 to coat evenly and let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Cook Pasta: In a pot of salted water, cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-9 minutes). Drain and rinse to prevent sticking.
  6. Combine: Add drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until coated. Simmer for 5 minutes over low heat.
  7. Serve & Store: Plate chicken with mac and cheese, garnish with parsley. Serve immediately or refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 45gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Marinate chicken well and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

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