High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist! You get that sticky-sweet, garlicky chicken with golden caramelized edges paired with creamy, rich mac and cheese—yes, it’s as irresistible as it sounds. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, satisfying, and just a little indulgent without totally falling off the healthy wagon. And the best part? It’s all ready in under 40 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Satisfying: This is a quick weeknight hero. You can have it on the table in less than an hour with minimal prep.
• Packed with Protein: Thanks to lean chicken breast and a boost from the cheese sauce, this dish fuels your muscles and your cravings.
• Flavor-Packed: Sweet honey, savory garlic, and rich butter coat the chicken in the most mouthwatering glaze imaginable.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone at the table—from picky eaters to protein lovers—will be licking their plates clean.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: High in protein and cooks quickly; thighs work too for a juicier option.
• Garlic: Freshly minced is best—it’s the flavor backbone of the sauce.
• Butter: Creates a rich base that balances the sweet and savory elements.
• Honey: Natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami; opt for low sodium if preferred.
• Paprika: For a subtle warmth and color.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that brings everything together.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and getting that gorgeous crust.

For the Mac & Cheese:

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for holding onto that velvety sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and bold—melted into creamy perfection.
• Milk: Helps make the cheese sauce smooth and luscious.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build the roux.
• Flour: A little flour thickens the sauce just right.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the mac to your taste.

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for heat lovers.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach into the mac for extra nutrients and color.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour with a gluten-free blend for the mac & cheese.
• Different Protein: Try it with shrimp or tofu for a change—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and slowly pour in the milk while whisking. Let it simmer until thickened, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in the cooked pasta and keep warm.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter, minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce. Stir until everything melts and combines into a glossy glaze.

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over each piece until thoroughly coated and glossy. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to caramelize.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Serve the sticky honey garlic chicken over a generous scoop of mac and cheese. Spoon extra sauce from the pan over the top if you want extra flavor (and trust me—you do).

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Butter and Honey Balance: Don’t skip the butter—it tempers the sweetness of the honey and creates that silky texture in the sauce.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly. For the creamiest mac, grate it fresh.
• Chicken Temperature: Use a thermometer and make sure the chicken hits 165°F internally so it stays juicy, not dry.
• Low Heat for the Sauce: Keep the heat gentle when making the garlic butter sauce to avoid burning the garlic.

How to Serve

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here’s how to level it up even further:

Garnish:

Top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness.

Side Ideas:

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or some simple steamed green beans to lighten the plate.

Fancy Touch:

Add a drizzle of hot honey or a pinch of smoked salt before serving for a gourmet finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and mac & cheese separate for best results.

Freezing

Freeze the chicken glazed with sauce for up to 2 months. The mac & cheese can be frozen too, but it’s best eaten fresh due to its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a covered skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Reheat mac & cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a touch of milk stirred in to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to cook them through until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What kind of cheese is best for the mac & cheese?
Sharp cheddar is the go-to for bold flavor and creamy melt, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a twist.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use plant-based butter and non-dairy cheese for the mac, and swap the milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. The honey garlic sauce can be made with vegan butter as well.

How do I keep the mac & cheese from drying out?
Add a splash of milk when reheating and stir often. Store it in an airtight container to keep moisture locked in.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is your new go-to comfort dinner that delivers on every level—fast, filling, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to tweak to your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this meal checks all the boxes. Give it a try—you’re going to love it!

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