High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a creamy, cheesy pasta dish—especially when it’s loaded with protein. The High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese with succulent, honey-glazed chicken and a buttery garlic twist. This dish isn’t just indulgent; it’s a protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even impressing guests. Imagine tender chicken coated in a sweet honey garlic glaze paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni—every bite bursts with flavor and satisfaction.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a muscle-building dinner or a foodie craving a hearty comfort meal, this recipe delivers. Follow along to master a Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Bowl with Mac and Cheese that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed Comfort Food: Each serving offers high-quality protein for muscle recovery and satiety.

• Flavor Explosion: Sweet honey meets savory garlic butter, balanced perfectly with creamy cheese sauce.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike—perfect for picky eaters.

• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Uses simple, accessible pantry staples without breaking the bank.

• Customizable: Easily swap chicken for turkey or use gluten-free pasta.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats beautifully for lunches or protein-rich leftovers.

• Comfort with Nutrition: Combines indulgence with health-conscious ingredients like olive oil and avocado oil.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 3 chicken breasts, cubed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or oil of choice)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

Tips:

• Use fresh chicken for optimal flavor and juiciness.

• Avocado oil adds richness and helps achieve a golden sear.

• Honey creates a caramelized glaze without overpowering the garlic.

Mac & Cheese

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ½ cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese

• 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Tips:

• Mozzarella adds stretch, cheddar adds depth of flavor.

• Cook pasta al dente so it absorbs the cheese sauce without becoming mushy.

• Adjust seasoning to taste; smoked paprika enhances warmth and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine cubed chicken, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours for deep flavor infusion.

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add marinated chicken, cooking 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

3. Stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley to coat the chicken evenly in the honey garlic butter glaze.

4. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Mac & Cheese

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.

2. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Reduce heat; stir in mozzarella and cheddar until the sauce is smooth.

5. Add cooked macaroni and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

6. Stir thoroughly, ensuring pasta is fully coated.

Assemble & Serve

1. Plate honey garlic butter chicken over or alongside mac & cheese.

2. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

3. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version. Use whole-grain pasta to boost fiber.

Can I Meal Prep Honey Garlic Chicken with Mac & Cheese?

Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

What Protein Variations Work Best?

Chicken thighs, turkey breast, or even shrimp make excellent alternatives for this protein-packed dish.

Hidden Trick for Maximum Flavor

Add a pinch of smoked paprika and a drizzle of honey during the last minute of cooking for a caramelized, smoky finish.

Best Ways to Serve

• Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.

• Serve with garlic bread for extra comfort.

• Turn it into a Honey Garlic Chicken Mac & Cheese Skillet for family-style serving.

• Nutrition (Per Serving)

Daily Value Tip: Perfect for a post-workout high-protein meal or a filling dinner.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and pasta separately for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Oven or skillet preferred; microwave works with added moisture.

 

FAQs

Q1: How do you make honey garlic chicken without it being too sweet?
Adjust the honey to taste and balance with garlic, butter, and a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.

Q2: Can I use low-fat cheese for mac & cheese?
Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. Add a teaspoon of butter to enhance richness.

Q3: What pasta works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but penne or rotini also hold cheese well.

Q4: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and retains flavor for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute butter with vegan butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for the sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze.

• Cheesy Herb Mac & Cheese: Mix in Parmesan and fresh thyme for aromatic flavor.

• International Twist: Use smoked gouda or fontina for a gourmet version.

Conclusion

Unlock the full flavor of dinner tonight with the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe. It’s creamy, savory, and satisfying—all while keeping your protein goals on track. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence, a meal prep hero, or a family favorite, this dish guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites.