High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich, creamy pasta. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep days, ensuring you enjoy comfort food without sacrificing nutrition. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty main course or prepare it ahead for meal prepping.
• Nutritious Twist: High in protein and paired with creamy mac and cheese, it’s a satisfying way to nourish your body.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this comforting dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken, allowing the flavors to blend thoroughly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and creating a rich sauce in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely chopping ingredients like garlic and parsley.

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Ingredients

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 Sauce

• 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)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked. Reduce heat to low; stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley. Allow everything to melt together then set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add butter over medium heat to deglaze the pan. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Pour in heavy cream and let it gently bubble.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Stir in mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain it well and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to your cheese sauce in the skillet. Let this simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Serve warm or divide into four airtight containers for meal prep convenience. Enjoy your delicious High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese!

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

This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Plate It Up

• Serve the chicken over a generous portion of mac and cheese for a classic presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

Add a Crunch

• Top with crispy fried onions for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Consider adding toasted breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for a delightful crunch.

Pair with Freshness

• Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Add sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes to enhance the freshness of the meal.

Create a Family Style Dinner

• Instead of individual plates, serve the chicken and mac & cheese in large bowls for a communal dining experience.
• Provide serving spoons so everyone can help themselves to their desired portions.

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

To ensure your dish turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind while preparing your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese.

• Marinate longer: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken for up to 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Opting for freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar enhances the creaminess and flavor of your mac and cheese.
• Cook pasta al dente: Be sure not to overcook your elbow macaroni; it should have a slight bite to hold up against the creamy sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference for seasoning.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or basil in addition to parsley for a unique twist in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Complementing your high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is easy when you choose the right side dishes. Here’s a list of great options that will round out your meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green vegetable that adds nutrients and vibrant color; simply steam until tender.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy for an earthy side dish.
3. Garlic Bread: Easy to prepare and perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the chicken; simply toast slices of bread with garlic butter.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with croutons and Caesar dressing provides a crunchy counterpart to the creamy pasta.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage adds crunch and balances the richness of the main dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat; brush it with herb butter for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking, especially with a recipe as tasty as High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Skipping the marinade can lead to bland chicken. Always allow time for marinating to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink and juices run clear.
• Not Deglazing the Pan: Failing to deglaze can result in missing out on rich flavors. Use butter or broth to scrape up any bits stuck to the pan.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients can lower the cooking temperature. Bring dairy products like cream to room temperature before adding.
• Rushing the Cheese Sauce: Cooking cheese too quickly can lead to clumping. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy for the best texture.
• Neglecting Pasta Timing: Overcooked pasta won’t hold its shape in mac and cheese. Cook it al dente for ideal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking to give it an extra kick.

Is there a vegetarian version of High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and follow the same recipe steps.

How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different proteins. It’s perfect as a comforting weeknight meal or meal prep option. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!