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

Oh, I absolutely love sharing this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe because it’s that perfect combo of comfort food meets nutritious punch. You get juicy, savory chicken drenched in a sweet and buttery garlic sauce, paired with creamy, dreamy mac and cheese that’s anything but ordinary. It’s one of those meals you can whip up any night of the week and still feel like you’re treating yourself and your family to something really special.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how the honey garlic butter elevates the chicken, making every bite bursting with flavor yet still satisfying your protein goals. And pairing it with mac & cheese that’s rich but not heavy? Total game changer. It’s perfect for meal prep because it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy this deliciousness even on your busiest days.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe plays an important role to balance savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. Plus, most of these are pantry staples you’ll love having on hand for quick meals.

• Chicken breasts: Cubed for quick cooking and to soak up the marinade’s flavor.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps seasoning stick to the chicken in marinade.
• Garlic: Both minced in marinade and mac & cheese, garlic is the star flavor here.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, earthy depth that complements the honey and butter.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overwhelming.
• Dried parsley: Adds a mild herbal note to keep things fresh.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything alive.
• Avocado oil or preferred cooking oil: For a high-heat friendly option while cooking chicken.
• Butter: For richness in both cooking chicken and making creamy mac & cheese.
• Honey: Provides just the right hint of sweetness in the sauce.
• Freshly chopped parsley: For a fresh, bright finish.
• Heavy cream: Key for the homemade mac & cheese sauce’s silky texture.
• Mozzarella and cheddar cheese: This combo melts into a smooth, gooey, cheesy sauce with great flavor balance.
• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice for mac & cheese that holds sauce beautifully.

Variations

I love how versatile this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe is – you can really make it your own depending on what you have in the fridge or dietary preferences.

• Make it Spicy: I like adding a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes to the marinade or cheese sauce when I want a little heat and kick.
• Swap the Chicken: I’ve made this with turkey breast cubes before, and it works just as well, keeping it lean and high protein.
• Dairy-Free Option: Try substituting buttery ghee and use coconut cream with vegan cheese for a dairy-free twist that still feels indulgent.
• Veggie Boost: When I want something a bit lighter, I toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms with the mac & cheese – adds color and nutrients.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by mixing those cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. I always let mine sit for at least 10 minutes—the longer, the better if you have time—so the flavors really soak in. I discovered this trick after a few bland chicken attempts: that short marinade completely transforms the taste and keeps the meat juicy while cooking.

Step 2: Sear and Finish the Chicken in Honey Garlic Butter

Heat your skillet over medium, then add avocado oil and the marinated chicken. Cook it for about 10-15 minutes until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink inside. Here’s what I learned: don’t rush this step—stir occasionally but let the chicken get a little sear to build flavor. Then reduce the heat and stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley, letting it melt and coat every piece. This is where the magic happens, turning the chicken irresistibly glossy and flavorful.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Mac & Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet (why dirty another dish?), melt butter over medium heat and cook your minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. I always sniff the air here because that garlic aroma means you’re on the right track. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and let it lightly bubble – patience pays off here. Then stir in mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you have a silky, smooth sauce that coats a spoon perfectly.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Al Dente and Combine Everything

While you’re making the sauce, boil your elbow macaroni until just al dente—this keeps it from getting mushy later. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, which I learned preserves the perfect bite texture. Add the pasta to your cheese sauce skillet and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Your kitchen will start smelling like a dream at this point!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Dish up the creamy mac & cheese first, then top generously with that honey garlic butter chicken. I find a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley on top really brightens the plate. Enjoy immediately or portion out leftovers for an amazing next-day lunch or dinner.

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

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a handful of fresh parsley or chives on top – the green looks so inviting and adds a fresh herbal note that complements the richness. Sometimes I like an extra drizzle of honey over the chicken for that sweet finish, especially when serving to guests.

Side Dishes

Since the mac & cheese is creamy and rich, I like pairing this recipe with simple, crisp sides like steamed green beans or a fresh mixed greens salad with light vinaigrette. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic sautéed spinach also make excellent, nutrient-packed accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled to golden perfection. It feels fancy but is super easy, and guests love having their own little cheesy pots.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they usually keep well for up to 3 days. I make sure to let everything cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and avoid soggy chicken or pasta.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe successfully by portioning the cooked chicken and mac & cheese separately in freezer-safe bags. That way, I can thaw just what I need and avoid overcooking the pasta during reheating. It’s perfect for batch cooking and makes busy weeknights a breeze.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, I prefer warming the chicken and mac & cheese gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess without drying the chicken. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through keeps everything even and tasty.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe quickly became a family favorite in my kitchen because it combines ease, protein, and so much flavor in one dish. I love recommending it to friends when they want a hearty but wholesome dinner that hits all the right notes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again – it’s that good!

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