High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is exactly what my weeknights call for – comforting flavors and a dish that packs both protein and creamy goodness. It is a classic crowd-pleaser and always disappears fast in my house because the kids are obsessed with the sweet and savory sauce while the cheese pulls in the mac and cheese are pure magic.

This recipe became my go-to during a busy work week when I needed satisfying leftovers but did not want the usual boring chicken and rice. Now my friends request it for potlucks all the time and it never disappoints.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast cubed: Tender lean protein best if you choose chicken that is firm pink and without excessive moisture for roasting
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade stick opt for cold pressed for flavor
• Fresh garlic minced: Infuses a punch of flavor fresh cloves give the best zing
• Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky depth Spanish varieties offer bold color and taste
• Garlic powder: Layers more mellow garlicky notes good quality garlic powder is aromatic not dusty smelling
• Dried parsley: Earthy brightness dried parsley should be vibrant and crumble easily
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning choose freshly cracked pepper if possible
• Avocado oil: For searing chicken at high heat its high smoke point keeps flavors clean
• Butter: Makes the mac and chicken silky always go for real unsalted butter
• Honey: Balances the savory with a natural sweetness local honey brings the most fragrance
• Fresh parsley: Chopped at the end for color and a herbaceous finish vivid green stems mean the freshest bunch
• Heavy cream: Basis of the cheese sauce choose cream with no additives for silkiness
• Mozzarella cheese: Grate it fresh for stretchier creamier results and avoid pre-shredded which is coated
• Cheddar cheese: Newly grated sharp cheddar melts smoother and tastes richer
• Elbow macaroni: Classic mac and cheese base cook just until al dente so it holds its texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine cubed chicken with olive oil garlic smoked paprika garlic powder dried parsley salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well ensuring every piece is coated and let it rest for ten minutes to soak in flavor.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium then add the marinated chicken. Sauté for ten to fifteen minutes stirring so all sides brown and the chicken is cooked through. Lower the heat add butter honey and fresh parsley and stir until the sauce coats each piece. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Mac and Cheese Sauce:

In the same skillet add butter and melt it over medium to deglaze the pan scraping up any caramelized bits. Add minced garlic and stir until golden and fragrant which develops rich flavor about two to three minutes. Pour in heavy cream and allow it to gently bubble so the cream thickens slightly.

Melt the Cheeses:

Gradually add mozzarella cheddar smoked paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper. Whisk continuously until all the cheese melts and you have a smooth luscious sauce.

Prepare the Pasta:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until just al dente which is about one to two minutes less than the package suggests. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent further cooking.

Combine and Finish:

Tip the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce in the skillet and blend gently so every noodle is coated. Let this simmer over low for five minutes to marry all flavors and reach ultimate creaminess.

Serve or Store:

Spoon mac and cheese onto plates then top with honey garlic chicken and extra fresh parsley if desired. To store divide into airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge.

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My favorite part is always swirling the noodles through the cheese sauce and savoring how that last drizzle of honey on the chicken brings out every other flavor. My kids and I started counting cheese pulls and it gets competitive sometimes

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. If prepping in advance add a splash of milk before reheating the mac and cheese so it stays creamy when microwaved or on the stovetop. This dish does not freeze well because the sauce can split upon thawing but it is perfect for make-ahead weekday lunches.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs which give a juicier bite. Use gluten free pasta to make the recipe celiac friendly. Plant-based heavy cream works for dairy-free needs and nutritional yeast added to the sauce gives extra umami if skipping real cheese. For more heat add a dash of cayenne to the chicken marinade.

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Serving Suggestions

This meal is delicious on its own but I love to serve it with lightly steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette. For a fun gathering offer extra honey and hot sauce at the table so everyone can adjust flavor to their liking. Leftover chicken also makes great high-protein wraps for lunch the next day.

Cultural Context

This recipe brings together American comfort food staples mac and cheese with a modern twist of honey garlic chicken a nod to Asian-inspired sweet savory traditions. The combination honors my family's love of merging classic comfort and bold flavors so every bite is both nostalgic and exciting.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How does marinating the chicken enhance the dish?

Marinating the chicken allows the flavors of garlic, smoked paprika, and parsley to penetrate the meat, resulting in juicier, more flavorful bites after cooking.

→ Can I use a different cheese for the mac & cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or cheddar with your preferred melting cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a unique flavor twist.

→ What makes this dish high in protein?

The use of chicken breast and a generous amount of cheese contributes to a high protein content, making the meal both filling and nutritious.

→ Is it possible to prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish stores well in airtight containers and can be reheated, making it ideal for meal prep or quick weekday dinners.

→ How can I prevent the pasta from becoming overcooked?

Cook the macaroni al dente and rinse under cold water after draining. This keeps the pasta firm when mixing with the hot cheese sauce.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular elbow macaroni for a certified gluten-free pasta to enjoy a gluten-free version.