High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is everything a weeknight dinner should be—quick, hearty, mouthwateringly delicious, and packed with satisfying protein. Juicy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic butter glaze pairs beautifully with ultra-creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat but fuels you like a champ. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is here to save the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Yet Impressive: Minimal prep and easy steps, but the flavors are bold and restaurant-worthy.
• Protein Powerhouse: With lean chicken breast and cheese-packed mac, it’s a delicious way to hit your protein goals.
• Sweet, Savory, and Creamy: The honey garlic butter sauce is sticky and rich, balancing the creaminess of the mac perfectly.
• Family Friendly: Kids love it, adults crave it—it’s a universal crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect Comfort Food: Cozy, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this satisfying dish to life:

• Chicken Breast: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein and quick cooking.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and color to the chicken.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings that signature punch to the sauce—don’t skimp!
• Honey: Natural sweetness that balances the savory butter and garlic.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth, umami, and balance to the sweetness of the honey.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for holding onto creamy cheese sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts into the mac for that gooey, melty texture we all crave.
• Milk: Helps loosen the cheese sauce to make it ultra-smooth.
• Greek Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: A secret weapon for adding protein and creaminess to the mac & cheese without extra fat.

Variations

Make this your own with a few simple swaps or additions:

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce.
• Low-Carb Twist: Swap mac & cheese for cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
• Veggie Boost: Stir steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach into the mac to sneak in more greens.
• Cheese Swap: Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite melty cheeses.
• Different Protein: Use boneless thighs, turkey breast, or even tofu if you want to switch things up.

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

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This builds the first layer of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey and soy sauce, simmer until slightly thickened and glossy.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in that sticky, sweet-savory sauce. Let it simmer a couple more minutes to soak up all the flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Macaroni

Meanwhile, boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt a little butter, stir in milk, Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese), and cheddar until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until fully coated. Plate up a generous scoop of mac, top with glazed chicken, and spoon over extra sauce for the ultimate finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep it juicy by removing it from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink in the center.
• Balance the Sauce: Taste your honey garlic sauce as it simmers—adjust the soy sauce or honey to get the perfect sweet-salty balance.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Powder won’t give you that same kick and aroma. Fresh is the way to go.
• Mac & Cheese Creaminess Hack: Blend the Greek yogurt or cottage cheese before adding it for a silky finish.
• Cheese Matters: Grate your own cheese for better melting and fewer additives.

How to Serve

This dish is satisfying enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round it out:

Garnishes:

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Side Ideas:

• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
• Roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.

Add a Crunch:

• Toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts over the mac give a delightful crunch and contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will stay sticky and delicious, and the mac reheats beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and mac & cheese separately. Let them cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to bring the mac back to its creamy glory. Chicken can be reheated in the skillet or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just chop it up and toss it in the honey garlic butter sauce to warm through and soak in flavor. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The sweet honey garlic sauce is a hit with kids, and cheesy mac is always a winner. You can even skip the garlic for picky eaters if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can! Use a plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and your favorite dairy-free cheese. The texture will be slightly different but still super tasty.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Coconut aminos or tamari are great gluten-free alternatives with a similar savory depth.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. It’s fast, filling, and full of flavor—and the best part is how easy it is to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you deserve this kind of delicious comfort!

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