High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy pasta. This dish is not only packed with protein but also bursts with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Delicious: This dish offers a healthy dose of protein without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite cheeses or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Easily divide into portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the sweet and savory flavors of honey garlic butter chicken and mac & cheese.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Great for marinating the chicken evenly, ensuring all flavors are absorbed.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and making the creamy cheese sauce in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese:

For the Chicken

• 3 chicken breasts (cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

For the Mac & Cheese

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
• 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until fully cooked. Once done, reduce heat to low and stir in the butter, honey, and chopped parsley until melted and well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and allow it to gently bubble.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.

Step 6: Combine

Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Enjoy this comforting dish warm or divide into four airtight containers for easy meal prep throughout the week.

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

Serving your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the chicken and cheese.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides freshness and acidity.

Enjoy with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread as a side to soak up any leftover sauce from the chicken.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for enjoying alongside the creamy mac and cheese.

Add a Sauce

• BBQ Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and smokiness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, a few drops of hot sauce can spice things up!

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

Perfecting your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can enhance its flavor significantly.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers more vibrant flavor than powdered garlic, making your dish taste even better.
• Blend Cheeses: Combining different cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar creates a richer, creamier mac and cheese.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it retains firmness, complementing the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken makes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and bright color to your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini brings sweetness and texture.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob complements the flavors of honey garlic chicken beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of mac and cheese.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes provide a nutritious, slightly sweet contrast to savory dishes.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies can add healthy grains to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that may affect the outcome.

• Over-marinating the Chicken: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to 10-15 minutes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Using Low-Quality Oils: Cheap oils may not provide the best flavor or health benefits. Opt for good quality olive or avocado oil to enhance your dish.
• Skipping the Cheese Melting Step: Forgetting to melt the cheese properly can lead to a grainy sauce. Make sure to stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
• Underseasoning the Dish: Not adding enough salt or spices can result in bland flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning accordingly for a well-balanced dish.
• Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Overcooking pasta can lead to mushiness in your mac & cheese. Follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or cream in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese.

What makes this recipe high-protein?

The chicken breasts are the main source of protein, providing lean meat that supports muscle growth and overall health.

Can I use other types of pasta for mac & cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you love, such as penne or fusilli.

How spicy is the honey garlic butter chicken?

This recipe has mild seasoning, but you can add chili powder or red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.

Can I replace honey with another sweetener?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and reheats nicely.

Final Thoughts

High-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a comfort food favorite. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding veggies like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that satisfies cravings!