As I was stirring the creamy mac and cheese, a mouthwatering aroma wafted through my kitchen—garlic and sweet honey mingling together is simply irresistible! This high protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when comfort food calls. Not only does it promise a hearty meal, but it’s also packed with protein, making it perfect for meal prep or a wholesome family dinner. Picture tender chicken dripping with a savory honey garlic sauce nestled beside rich, cheesy pasta; it’s a plate that delivers satisfaction with every single bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Curious about how to make this delectable dish? Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Why is this chicken and mac so special?
Comforting Combination: Honey Garlic Butter Chicken and Creamy Mac & Cheese create a meal that’s the ultimate comfort food duo.
High in Protein: Packed with succulent chicken, it’s perfect for those looking to boost their protein intake without compromising flavor.
Quick Prep: From marinating to serving, this dish can be on your table in just about 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chicken thighs for extra moisture or a vegetarian twist using grilled vegetables, this recipe adapts to your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store individual portions in the fridge for a quick, delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week, just like my Garlic Butter Turkey for an easy go-to!
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or friendly dinners!
Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Ingredients
• Get ready to create this delightful dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Provides protein; cut into cubes for quick marination and cooking.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor while helping to marinate the chicken; substitute with any cooking oil you have on hand.
- Garlic (cloves, minced) – Imparts a rich, aromatic flavor that makes the dish irresistible; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
- Smoked Paprika – Offers a smoky flavor profile; substitute with regular paprika if necessary.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances garlic flavor for depth; optional if fresh garlic has already been added.
- Dried Parsley – Adds color and mild herbal flavor; use fresh parsley for a brighter taste.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasoning to elevate overall flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Butter – Contributes richness and helps create the sauce; for a lighter version, substitute with olive oil.
- Honey – Adds sweetness to balance flavors beautifully; swap with maple syrup for a vegan option.
For the Mac & Cheese
- Butter (for pasta) – Used to create the mac and cheese base; adds a delicious richness to the dish.
- Garlic (additional, minced) – Introduces more garlic flavor to the cheese sauce; fresh minced garlic is always best.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter touch.
- Freshly Grated Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese – Essential for creaminess and flavor in your mac and cheese; pre-grated cheese can save you time.
- Elbow Macaroni – The classic base for mac and cheese; feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes if desired.
- Smoked Paprika and Garlic Powder (for mac and cheese) – Additional seasonings that enhance the cheese sauce beautifully; these will elevate the flavor.
Get ready to savor every spoonful of this high protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese that’s perfect for meal prep or a flavorful dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature, letting the flavors infuse while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and slightly caramelized on the edges. Once cooked, stir in butter and honey, allowing them to melt together and coat the chicken with a glossy sauce.
Step 3: Make Mac & Cheese
Using the same skillet, remove the chicken and set it aside. Add butter to the pan, followed by the additional minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Pour in heavy cream, allowing it to bubble gently, and scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate into the sauce.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese until fully melted. Keep stirring until the cheese creates a smooth and creamy texture, enhancing your mac and cheese’s richness. Make sure the mixture is velvety without any lumps for the best consistency.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
While preparing the cheese sauce, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, making sure not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the cheese sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the drained macaroni to the creamy cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta thoroughly. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Finally, serve the creamy mac and cheese alongside the succulent Honey Garlic Butter Chicken for a delightful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Make Ahead Options
These delectable Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! To make this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it absorbs all that savory flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the mac and cheese and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just remember to store everything in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet and warm the mac and cheese on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked comfort featuring Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese with minimal effort!
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs for the most vibrant flavors in your Honey Garlic Butter Chicken. Dried herbs can dull the taste.
- Avoid Overcooking: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink; overcooking can lead to dry meat. Check with a meat thermometer if unsure.
- Creamy Texture: Stir the cheese into the mac and cheese sauce slowly to achieve that luscious, creamy texture. Don’t rush this step!
- Adequate Seasoning: Taste your mac and cheese sauce as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to ensure the best flavor profile for the dish.
- Meal Prep Hero: Store leftovers in airtight containers. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken and mac and cheese creamy and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers; Honey Garlic Butter Chicken and mac and cheese can be kept for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: To extend shelf life, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore its creamy consistency; warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What to Serve with High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese
Create a complete meal that’s not just delicious but also delightfully balanced for your family’s table!
- Light Green Salad: A crisp side filled with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the plate, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant and nutritious, its mild flavor and crunchy texture provide a wonderful contrast to the comfort of mac and cheese. Plus, it adds a pop of color!
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and toasty, these buttery delights are perfect for sopping up the honey garlic sauce; they make every bite extra special.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots echo the flavors of the chicken while adding a lovely touch of sweetness and crunch to your meal.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, their caramelized exterior complements the rich chicken beautifully; they’re at once hearty and refined.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and balances the savory flavors on your plate, making for a harmonious dining experience.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies; their gooey chocolate can be the perfect treat paired with your comfort food.
- Apple Crisp: A warm and comforting dessert bursting with cinnamon flavors that rounds out a satisfying dinner while offering a delightful, fruity contrast.
Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Customization
Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to this delectable dish!
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Thighs Instead of Breasts: Substitute chicken breasts with juicy chicken thighs for extra moisture and richer flavor. They will cook similarly, but the added fat will enhance the dish.
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Various Pasta Shapes: Use shells, penne, or even gluten-free pasta for a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese. Each shape will bring its own texture and allows for a little creativity!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a heartwarming vegetarian version. Add your favorite veggies for extra color and nutrients!
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Spice It Up: If you crave a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce. This little heat factor will awaken your taste buds!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a distinctive flavor profile that compliments the garlic beautifully.
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Creamy Dream: For an even creamier mac and cheese, mix in a dollop of cream cheese or a bit of mascarpone along with the heavy cream. Your mac just got a luxurious upgrade!
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Cheese Lovers: Elevate the cheesy goodness by incorporating Gruyère or fontina cheese for a gourmet twist on your mac and cheese. The nuttiness of these cheeses will soar your flavors to another level.
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Add a Crunch: Top your mac and cheese with crispy panko breadcrumbs or crumbled bacon for an irresistible crunch. Broil for a couple of minutes until golden brown for that ultimate topping!
Whether you’re whipping up a comforting dinner or prepping meals for the week, these variations will ensure that your Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese remains exciting and delicious! You might also want to check out my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken if you’re looking for another tasty option to try!
Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
For this Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean, protein-packed option. Cubing the chicken makes it easier to marinate and cook quickly — just be sure not to overcook it to maintain juiciness!
How do I store leftovers?
After enjoying your delightful meal, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy this delicious dish later, I suggest portioning it out in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken and mac and cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken and mac and cheese to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to label them with the date, and enjoy them within 2 months for the best flavor. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Simply add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the mac and cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or need to avoid heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk can work well, but keep in mind that they will slightly change the flavor profile!
What if my mac and cheese sauce is too thick?
If you find your cheese sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just add a splash of warm milk or chicken broth gradually while stirring until you reach your preferred creamy consistency. It’s all about adjusting to what you like — the more, the merrier!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is perfect for meal prep. The recipe yields several servings, and the flavors often develop even more after resting. Store it in portioned-out containers, and you’ll have tasty, protein-rich meals ready throughout the week!
Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Sauté for 10-15 minutes until cooked through. Stir in butter and honey.
- In the same skillet, add butter and additional minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and scrape any flavorful bits to incorporate into the sauce.
- Reduce the heat and stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook elbow macaroni separately until al dente; drain.
- Combine the drained macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce, simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve the creamy mac and cheese alongside the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken.
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