Introduction

This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese combines tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, cheesy pasta. It’s a comforting yet protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts.

Three clear glass containers are placed vertically on a white marbled surface, each filled with two sections of food. The left section in every container has creamy, orange-colored macaroni pasta with a slightly thick sauce, topped with small green herb bits. The right sections consist of browned, bite-sized pieces of cooked meat with a slight char and scattered green herbs. The containers are neatly arranged, showing consistent portions in each. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
2 tbsp butter (for mac & cheese)
4 cloves garlic (minced, for 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 (for mac & cheese)
2 tsp garlic powder (for mac & cheese)
2 tsp salt (for mac & cheese)
1/2 tsp black pepper (for mac & cheese)

Instructions

Step 1: 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 preparing other ingredients.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 tablespoons butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley. Let the butter melt and coat the chicken, then set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently bubble. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve the honey garlic butter chicken alongside or on top of the mac & cheese. Enjoy warm or divide into airtight containers for meal prep.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add cooked bacon or a handful of sautéed spinach to the mac & cheese.
Use smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile in the cheese sauce.
Marinate the chicken longer, up to 1 hour, to deepen the flavors.
Substitute elbow macaroni with penne or shells if preferred.

Storage

Store the chicken and mac & cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear rectangular glass container filled with two main layers of food. On the left side is a creamy, orange-colored macaroni and cheese with visible small green herb pieces sprinkled on top, giving it a textured look. The macaroni is curly and covered in a thick cheese sauce. On the right side are browned, bite-sized pieces of chicken with a glossy finish and small green herb bits scattered on them, making the chicken appear juicy and seasoned. Behind the front container is another similar glass container, showing the same macaroni and chicken combination. The containers are set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and proper marination. If using frozen, thaw completely before marinating and cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well for up to 4 days and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for meal prep and quick lunches or dinners.