High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese is a delicious twist on comfort food that the whole family will love. Juicy chicken is infused with sweet and savory flavors, while creamy mac and cheese brings a rich, cheesy element to the dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe delivers nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, this dish provides essential nutrients to fuel your day.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Comfort Food Classic: Mac & cheese offers a familiar taste that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Skillet
• Cooking utensils (spatula, spoon)
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.
• Skillet: A versatile tool for both cooking the chicken and preparing the creamy mac and cheese sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Necessary for cooking the elbow macaroni perfectly al dente.

Ingredients

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:
1. Cubed chicken with olive oil.
2. Minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper.

Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add marinated chicken to the skillet.
3. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked.
4. Reduce heat to low; stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley until melted.

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese

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

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.

Step 6: Combine

Add cooked pasta to cheese sauce; let simmer on low for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Enjoy warm or divide into four airtight containers for meal prep!

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

Serving high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is all about enhancing its flavors and making it visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Plating Ideas

• Layered Presentation: Start by placing a generous scoop of mac and cheese on the plate, then top it with the honey garlic butter chicken for a beautiful layered effect.
• Family Style: Serve everything in one large dish where everyone can help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for shared meals.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
• Breadsticks or Garlic Bread: These are great for soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some seasonal roasted veggies as a healthy side that balances the meal’s richness.

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

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal flavor and texture.

• Marination: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than 10 minutes if possible. This enhances the flavor throughout the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Cheese Types: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors. Consider gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your macaroni is al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the cheese sauce.

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

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with high-protein honey garlic butter chicken and mac and cheese.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The earthy flavor of broccoli balances out the richness of mac and cheese while adding nutrition.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons provide crunch and freshness alongside your hearty entree.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy textures of mac and cheese.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a gourmet touch while remaining simple to prepare.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of your main dish, creating a classic comfort food combination.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer sweetness and crunch, making them an enjoyable side that pairs well with rich dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavor. Always marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Using Low-Quality Oils: Low-quality oils can affect the dish’s flavor. Use high-quality olive oil or avocado oil for better taste and nutrition.
• Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Overcooking pasta makes it mushy in the cheese sauce. Cook pasta just until tender and drain promptly.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure a flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

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

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir occasionally until warmed thoroughly, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the butter and cheese amounts.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use tofu or shrimp as an alternative protein source for a delicious twist.

What sides pair well with High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?

Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition and balance.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, ensuring you enjoy comfort food without sacrificing nutrition.