Name: High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac n Cheese
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 3 chicken breasts, cubed; 3 tbsp avocado oil; 10 tbsp unsalted butter (2 tbsp for chicken, 8 tbsp for mac & cheese); 8 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder (for chicken); 1/2 tsp black pepper; Pinch red pepper flakes (optional); 12 oz elbow macaroni; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups whole milk; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 4 oz Gruyère or Fontina cheese, grated; 4 oz cream cheese, cubed; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder (for mac & cheese); 1 tsp dried parsley; 2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese – are you ready for a culinary experience that redefines comfort food with a healthy, flavor-packed twist? We’ve all cherished the nostalgic embrace of classic macaroni and cheese, a dish that has comforted generations and holds a revered spot in kitchens worldwide. But what if you could elevate this beloved staple, infusing it with robust flavors and a powerful protein punch, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal?

Get ready to be utterly captivated by the symphony of tastes and textures this recipe offers. Imagine succulent, juicy chicken pieces, generously coated in a shimmering, sticky honey garlic butter sauce, perfectly combined with a rich, velvety cheese sauce and al dente pasta. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste profile – the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami – but also for its incredibly satisfying texture and the sheer convenience of having a complete, balanced meal in one pot. This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese truly offers the best of both worlds, making it an instant family favorite that perfectly marries indulgence with nutritional goals.

<h2>Ingredients:</h2>
<ul>
<li>For the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken:
<ul>
<li>1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes</li>
<li>2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided</li>
<li>1 tablespoon olive oil</li>
<li>For the Marinade/Glaze:
<ul>
<li>1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a slightly different note)</li>
<li>4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1.5 tablespoons)</li>
<li>2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)</li>
<li>1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang to balance sweetness)</li>
<li>1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth and color)</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon onion powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon black pepper</li>
<li>Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For the Creamy Mac and Cheese Base:
<ul>
<li>12 oz (about 340g) elbow macaroni or similar small pasta shape (like cavatappi or shells)</li>
<li>1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)</li>
<li>1/2 cup all-purpose flour</li>
<li>4 cups whole milk, warmed (don’t use cold milk, it can make your sauce lumpy)</li>
<li>1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (adds another layer of savory flavor)</li>
<li>8 oz (about 2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated</li>
<li>4 oz (about 1 cup) Gruyère or Fontina cheese, freshly grated (for superior melt and nuttiness)</li>
<li>4 oz (about 1 cup) cream cheese, cut into small cubes (for extra creaminess and stability)</li>
<li>1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (a secret ingredient that enhances cheese flavor without tasting “mustardy”)</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon garlic powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon onion powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for color and warmth)</li>
<li>Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Optional Garnish:
<ul>
<li>Fresh parsley or chives, chopped</li>
<li>Extra red pepper flakes</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

<h3>Preparing the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken</h3>
<ol>
<li>Prepare the Chicken and Marinade: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready to absorb all those amazing flavors. Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into roughly 1-inch cubes. Aim for pieces that are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add that pinch of red pepper flakes. This mixture isn’t just a marinade; it’s also going to become our delicious glaze, so we want to make sure it’s perfectly balanced. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature, or for an hour (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator if you have more time. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor will be, but even a short soak will make a significant difference.</li<
<li>Sear the Chicken: When your chicken is ready, grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast-iron pan and place it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. The butter provides richness and helps with browning, while the olive oil raises the smoke point. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, carefully add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches to ensure proper searing. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of giving it that beautiful golden-brown crust we’re looking for. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).</li>
<li>Create the Honey Garlic Butter Glaze: Once all the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. It’s okay if there are some browned bits left in the pan – those are pure flavor! Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, pour in any remaining marinade from the bowl into the pan. This is where the magic happens! Stir continuously, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens into a beautiful, glossy glaze. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Taste it and adjust seasoning if needed – perhaps a tiny pinch more salt or a dash more honey if you prefer it sweeter.</li>
<li>Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened honey garlic butter glaze. Toss the chicken gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in that shimmering, savory-sweet goodness. This step not only adds immense flavor but also keeps the chicken incredibly juicy. Turn off the heat and keep the chicken warm while we move on to the mac and cheese.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Crafting the Creamy Mac and Cheese Base</h3>
<ol start=”5″>
<li>Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage is crucial for flavoring the pasta from the inside out, don’t skimp on it! Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. This means it should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it. Remember, it will continue to cook a little bit in the hot cheese sauce, so don’t overcook it now. Once cooked, drain the pasta well in a colander. Important Tip: Do not rinse the pasta! The starch clinging to the noodles is essential for helping the cheese sauce adhere beautifully. Set aside.</li>
<li>Prepare the Cheese Blend: While your pasta is boiling, take a moment to grate your cheeses. Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly and tastes significantly better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Grate the sharp cheddar, Gruyère (or Fontina), and set them aside. Cut your cream cheese into small cubes so it melts more easily into the sauce later on. Having all your cheese ready before you start the sauce will make the process much smoother and prevent scrambling.</li>
<li>Make the Roux: In the same large pot (or a different heavy-bottomed pot if you prefer, just ensure it’s large enough for the finished mac and cheese), melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Immediately begin whisking continuously for 2-3 minutes. This mixture is called a roux, and it’s the foundation of our creamy sauce. You’re looking for a smooth, pale yellow paste. Whisking ensures there are no lumps and cooks out the raw flour taste, which is key for a silky smooth sauce.</li>
<li>Build the Béchamel Base: Gradually, and I mean gradually, whisk in the warmed whole milk, about half a cup at a time. Whisk vigorously after each addition to fully incorporate the liquid into the roux before adding more. This is another crucial step to prevent lumps and achieve a velvety smooth béchamel. Once all the milk is incorporated, add the chicken or vegetable broth, continuing to whisk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking occasionally. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened considerably and coats the back of a spoon. It should have a consistency similar to a thin gravy. Pro Tip: Keeping your milk warm helps prevent the roux from seizing up and keeps the sauce smooth.</li>
<li>Melt in the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low, or even remove the pot from the heat entirely for a moment. This is important because high heat can cause cheese to separate and become oily. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Now, add the freshly grated cheddar, Gruyère, and the cubed cream cheese. Stir constantly with a whisk or a sturdy spoon until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is incredibly smooth and homogenous. The cream cheese will add an irresistible richness and help stabilize the sauce, preventing it from breaking. Taste the sauce and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, cheese can be salty, so add a little at a time and taste. You want a beautifully balanced, rich cheese flavor.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Bringing it All Together: The High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese</h3>
<ol start=”10″>
<li>Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained, cooked macaroni directly into the pot with the luscious cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every single noodle is completely coated in that creamy, dreamy cheese goodness. This is where your mac and cheese starts to really take shape. Make sure there are no dry spots – we want maximum indulgence!</li>
<li>Fold in the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken: Now for the star of our high-protein show! Gently fold the honey garlic butter chicken, along with any remaining glaze from the skillet, into the mac and cheese. Distribute the chicken evenly throughout the pasta. Be careful not to stir too aggressively, as we want to keep the chicken pieces intact. The savory, sweet, and garlicky notes of the chicken will beautifully complement the rich, cheesy pasta, creating a truly harmonious and satisfying dish. This combination is what makes this recipe stand out, offering a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, plus a significant protein boost that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.</li>
<li>Optional: Bake for a Golden Crust (Recommended!): If you desire that irresistible golden-brown crust and extra depth of flavor, you can transfer your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese to a large, oven-safe baking dish (around 9×13 inches). At this point, you could sprinkle an extra handful of grated cheese (like Parmesan or more cheddar) or some panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown. This step isn’t strictly necessary for deliciousness, but it adds another layer of texture and makes it feel extra special.</li>
<li>Serve and Garnish: Your incredible High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese is now ready to be devoured! Spoon generous portions into bowls. For a fresh finish and a pop of color, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives. If you enjoy a little more heat, a few extra red pepper flakes on top would be fantastic. Serve immediately and watch it disappear. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully comforting, making it perfect for a family meal or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Enjoy every single bite of this elevated comfort food!</li>
</ol>

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious culmination of our culinary journey with a dish that I genuinely believe will become a staple in your home. This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a harmonious blend of comforting nostalgia and innovative flavor, designed to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional goals. I poured my heart into crafting this recipe, ensuring that every bite delivers a symphony of sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible notes. From the sticky, caramelized sweetness of the honey garlic butter chicken to the rich, creamy embrace of the cheese sauce coating perfectly al dente macaroni, this dish is a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun. It’s the ultimate comfort food, elevated, offering a substantial protein boost without feeling heavy or overly complex to prepare.

What truly makes this recipe a must-try, in my humble opinion, is its unparalleled ability to bridge the gap between indulgence and wholesome goodness. We’re talking about a meal that fuels your body with quality protein, thanks to the succulent chicken, while simultaneously wrapping you in the warm, cheesy hug that only a great mac and cheese can provide. It’s the perfect answer for those busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary but need it to be relatively straightforward, or for a weekend gathering where you want to impress without the stress. The golden-brown crust, the tender chicken, the gooey cheese – every element is designed for maximum satisfaction. Trust me, once you taste the unique combination of flavors in this dish, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about it. It’s a complete meal in one glorious pot, eliminating the need for countless side dishes and simplifying your dinner routine in the most delicious way possible.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

While this magnificent dish stands proudly on its own, a few additions can elevate your dining experience even further. For a burst of freshness and to cut through the richness, I absolutely love serving a crisp, green side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Think peppery arugula, delicate baby spinach, or crunchy romaine. Steamed broccoli or green beans, lightly seasoned, also make excellent companions, adding both color and a welcome dose of vegetables to your plate. If you’re a fan of textural contrast, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving can add a vibrant visual appeal and a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. And for those who adore a bit of crunch, a side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness.

But don’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile and encourages experimentation. Want to amp up the heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the cheese sauce or sprinkled over the chicken during cooking will add a delightful kick. For a smoky twist, try incorporating a small amount of smoked paprika or even a few ounces of smoked gouda into your cheese blend. If you’re looking to sneak in more vegetables, feel free to fold in steamed peas, finely chopped bell peppers, or even some sautéed mushrooms along with the macaroni. You could even swap out some of the cheddar for Monterey Jack or a sharp provolone to tweak the cheese profile. For an extra layer of crunch and flavor, a topping of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little garlic powder and parmesan, baked until golden, is always a winner. And for my fellow texture enthusiasts, crispy bacon bits crumbled over the top right before serving? Utterly divine. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible meal to your specific preferences and what you have on hand.

Your Turn: Taste the Magic of High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese!

Now that you have all the insights, tips, and inspiration, it’s your turn to bring this magic to life in your own kitchen. I truly hope you’ll give this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac Cheese a try. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience – a delightful journey of flavors that promises to become a beloved comfort food in your household. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table, the satisfied sighs, and the sheer joy of a meal that is both incredibly delicious and wonderfully nourishing. Don’t be shy about making it your own with any of the variations we discussed, or even by inventing new ones! I am incredibly excited for you to discover the deliciousness that awaits.

And once you’ve whipped up your own batch, please don’t keep it a secret! I absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Share your experience, your photos, and any brilliant tweaks you made. Did you add a secret ingredient? Did you discover a new favorite serving suggestion? Let me know what you thought, how it tasted, and how it made your day. Your feedback truly brightens my day and helps this community of food lovers grow. Happy cooking, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite dinner!