Description

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese recipe combines tender, marinated chicken breasts glazed with a flavorful honey garlic butter sauce, paired perfectly with a creamy, cheesy macaroni. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal that balances savory, sweet, and smoky flavors with a luscious, creamy texture, making it an ideal dinner for families or anyone looking for a hearty homemade dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

3 chicken breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons avocado oil (or oil of choice)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

For the Mac & Cheese:

2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
½ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Stir in the butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley, coating the chicken in the honey garlic butter glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Mac & Cheese: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until melted and creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the cooked elbow macaroni, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to coat the pasta completely with the cheese sauce.
Assemble & Serve: Plate the creamy mac & cheese either as a base or alongside the honey garlic butter chicken. Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.

Notes

Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Cook macaroni just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and taste results.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on preference.
This dish can be paired with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.