High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

If comfort food had a crown, High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese would easily take the throne. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with a luscious sweet-and-savory glaze, paired perfectly with creamy, cheesy macaroni. It’s indulgent yet packed with protein, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

From the first bite, you’ll notice the richness of the buttery garlic glaze, the gentle sweetness from honey, and the comforting, gooey macaroni that envelopes every forkful. What makes this recipe even better? It’s quick, straightforward, and doesn’t require complicated techniques or ingredients.

Whether you’re feeding hungry teens, prepping for a cozy dinner at home, or looking to elevate a classic mac and cheese, this recipe is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• High-protein and satisfying: Packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, perfect for active households.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Sweet and savory glaze: Honey and garlic balance beautifully for a flavor explosion.
• One-skillet cooking option: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Family-friendly: Creamy macaroni appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Meal prep friendly: Reheats beautifully, making leftovers a treat.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people. All ingredients are listed exactly as provided, grouped by components.

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

For the Honey Garlic Butter Glaze

• 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

For the Mac & Cheese

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
• 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan for pasta
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
• Colander or strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by cubing 3 chicken breasts and placing them in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add the Honey Garlic Butter Glaze

Reduce the heat slightly and stir in butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley. Toss the chicken until coated evenly in the sweet-and-savory glaze. The combination of butter and honey creates a luscious, sticky coating that clings to each bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté additional minced garlic in butter for about a minute. Slowly add heavy cream, allowing it to bubble gently. Once warm, stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Maintain a low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil 12 oz of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture. Simmer on low for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the macaroni and top with the glazed honey garlic chicken. Garnish with additional freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Dietary Options

• Lower-fat option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-free: Swap regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

Spice Adjustments

• Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Use smoked paprika or regular paprika depending on your preference.

Seasonal & Pantry Substitutions

• Swap cheddar with gouda or gruyère for a more complex flavor.
• Incorporate sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli for extra nutrition.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The dish balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The buttery, honey-glazed chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy macaroni. The result is a dish that’s indulgent yet approachable, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Best Side Dishes

• Garlic bread for a crunchy contrast
• Light salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrients

Nutritional Overview

Estimated per serving (1 cup, approx. 250g):

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 34 g (Saturated 20 g, Unsaturated 12 g)
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 120 mg

This dish is high-protein, nutrient-rich, and satisfying, perfect for those who want a hearty yet balanced meal.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Marinate chicken in advance to save time.
• Cook pasta and store separately from the sauce to prevent over-softening.
• Cheese sauce can be prepared ahead and gently reheated with a splash of cream.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier option.

How long can leftovers be stored?

Keep in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creamy texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free macaroni.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Absolutely. Just double all ingredients and ensure you have a large enough skillet.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Marinate Chicken	10 minutes
Cook Chicken	10–15 minutes
Cheese Sauce	5–7 minutes
Pasta	8–10 minutes
Combine & Simmer	5 minutes
Total	45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot in deep bowls for an inviting presentation.
• Sprinkle with extra parsley or paprika for color.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Mac & Cheese: Add crushed red pepper flakes.
2. Veggie-Loaded Version: Incorporate sautéed broccoli, peas, or spinach.
3. Cheesy Extra: Mix in cream cheese or more cheddar for a richer sauce.
4. Lemon Herb Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice to the cheese sauce for brightness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts

• High in protein, low in fat, versatile for countless dishes.
• Choose firm, pink meat with no odor for the best results.

Garlic

• Provides a bold, aromatic flavor essential to this recipe.
• Fresh garlic is preferred over powders for depth of flavor.

Cheese

• Use freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar for creamy, smooth sauce.
• Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for better melt.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juiciness.
• Stir cheese sauce continuously to prevent separation.
• Adjust seasoning at the end to taste; salt and pepper enhance the glaze and sauce.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigeration

• Store chicken and mac & cheese together in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore texture.

Freezing

• Freeze chicken separately for best results, up to 2 months.
• Mac & cheese can be frozen but may lose creaminess; reheat slowly and stir in extra cream.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	600 kcal
Protein	30 g
Fat	34 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fiber	2 g
Sodium	800 mg

Dietary notes: Nut-free, can be gluten-free with GF pasta, high-protein.

Conclusion

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a comforting, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. The sweet honey garlic glaze, tender chicken, and creamy macaroni create a harmonious combination that will delight your family and guests alike. Quick to prepare, versatile, and deeply flavorful, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Serve it for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, and enjoy a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Once you taste this blend of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness, it will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

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