Delicious High Protein Honey Garlic Chicken with Mac & Cheese

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary embrace that promises to satisfy every craving while supporting your health goals. Have you ever wished for a dish that perfectly marries irresistible comfort food with robust nutritional value? A meal that makes you feel both indulgent and accomplished?

I know I have, and that’s precisely why this recipe holds a special place in my kitchen. While the individual components—creamy macaroni and cheese, and succulent honey garlic chicken—have long been beloved staples in countless homes worldwide, their ingenious combination represents a modern culinary triumph. It speaks to our desire for meals that don’t compromise on flavor or convenience, especially in our busy lives.

Why This Dish is a Game-Changer

People absolutely adore this dish because it delivers on so many fronts. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a glistening, sticky-sweet, and savory honey garlic butter sauce, perfectly complementing a side of rich, cheesy macaroni. The interplay of textures and the explosion of flavors—sweet, umami, creamy, and slightly tangy—make every bite an experience. Furthermore, it’s designed to be a fantastic source of protein, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to fuel their body without sacrificing taste. This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese offers a complete, satisfying plate that tastes like a cheat meal but fits perfectly into a balanced diet. It’s truly the best of both worlds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I often go for thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work beautifully too, especially for a leaner option! Cut them into 1-inch pieces or thin cutlets. This allows for quicker cooking and better absorption of that amazing sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, for searing. We need a good neutral oil that can withstand a bit of heat and help us achieve that beautiful golden crust on our chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground is always best for maximum aroma and zing!
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a lovely depth and smokiness, but regular sweet paprika is perfectly fine and contributes a beautiful color).
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. This provides a foundational layer of garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic in the sauce.

• For the Sticky Honey Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Yes, butter! It’s absolutely key to that rich, glossy, emulsified sauce and provides a luxurious mouthfeel.
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced very finely. The more garlic, the merrier, in my opinion, especially for a dish called “honey garlic butter chicken”! This is the heart and soul of our sauce’s aromatic profile.
• 1/4 cup honey. Choose a good quality honey, as its natural sweetness and floral notes will truly shine through and balance the savory elements.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium is often a good choice to control the overall saltiness and allow you to season to your preference). This provides a wonderful umami depth and savory complexity.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar. A touch of acidity is crucial here; it brightens the entire sauce, cuts through the richness, and prevents it from being overly sweet.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended for a little kick that beautifully complements the sweet and savory flavors). Adjust to your spice preference!
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish and a touch of vibrant freshness at the end.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (optional, for garnish and a delightful nutty flavor and textural contrast).

• For the Creamy Mac and Cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or other small pasta shapes (shells, cavatappi, or even medium spirals work great too!). The nooks and crannies of these shapes really grab onto that cheesy sauce.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. This, along with the flour, forms the base of our incredibly creamy cheese sauce.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour. These two are for our roux, the essential thickening agent for a perfectly smooth mac and cheese.
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed slightly. Warming the milk helps prevent lumps when whisking into the roux and makes for a much smoother, more quickly incorporated sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (don’t skip this! It doesn’t make the dish taste like mustard; instead, it subtly enhances the savory, tangy notes of the cheese, making the cheese flavor pop).
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, for a touch of warmth and spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a lovely warm color and a hint of extra flavor).
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. I highly, highly recommend shredding your own cheese from a block for the absolute best melt, flavor, and creaminess. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty or less smooth.
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese or Monterey Jack (Gruyere adds a fantastic nutty depth and sophisticated flavor, while Monterey Jack offers incredible meltability and extra creaminess if you prefer a milder profile).
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for mixing into the sauce for extra tang or as part of a crunchy topping if baking).
• Panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a super crunchy and golden topping if you decide to bake your mac and cheese).

Preparing the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Alright, let’s dive into making this absolutely irresistible High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese. We’ll start with the star of the show, our chicken, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked and ready to soak up all that incredible honey garlic butter goodness!

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   First things first, let’s get our chicken ready for its moment in the spotlight. If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, I find it works best to slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets, aiming for about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly, which is super important for achieving tender, juicy chicken without drying it out. If you prefer chicken thighs for their inherent juiciness and rich flavor, you can simply cut them into 1-inch bite-sized pieces, trimming off any excess fat as you go. Once cut, pat the chicken pieces very, very dry with paper towels. This step is absolutely crucial for achieving a beautiful, golden-brown sear and crispy edges, rather than merely steaming the chicken in its own juices. A dry surface browns much more effectively and quickly!

   In a medium bowl, toss the dried chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika (whether it’s smoked or sweet), and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Make sure every single piece is nicely coated with this flavorful seasoning blend. You can let this sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare your skillet, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken slightly and bringing it closer to room temperature for more even cooking.

2. Sear the Chicken:

   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough so that when you add the chicken, it sizzles immediately upon contact. This is the secret to a good sear! Now, here’s a critical tip: do not overcrowd the pan! This is super important because if you put too many pieces in at once, the temperature of the pan will drop significantly, and the chicken will end up steaming instead of developing that glorious seared crust. Work in batches if necessary, giving each piece enough space to breathe and develop that lovely golden-brown crust. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden brown, caramelized, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a clean plate. Don’t worry about cleaning the pan yet; those little browned bits, or “fond,” at the bottom of the skillet are pure flavor gold that we’ll incorporate into our sauce!

   Pro Tip for Searing: Don’t move the chicken around too much once it’s in the pan. Let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to really develop that crust and color. Resist the urge to poke or prod it constantly. Patience is key for perfectly seared chicken that’s both tender on the inside and beautifully browned on the outside!

Crafting the Sticky Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

Now for the magical sauce that truly defines our High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken. This sauce is rich, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, incredibly aromatic, and just plain addictive!

3. Sauté the Garlic:

   Reduce the heat under your skillet to medium-low. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet where you cooked the chicken. Let it melt slowly, using a wooden spoon or spatula to gently scrape up any of those delicious browned bits (the fond) from the bottom of the pan – that’s pure, concentrated flavor that will enrich our sauce! Once the butter is fully melted and perhaps slightly foamy, add your 6-8 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant and softened, but without letting it brown or burn. Burnt garlic tastes bitter, and we want sweet, aromatic garlic here. The residual heat from the pan will help cook it gently and release its oils.

4. Simmer the Sauce:

   To the pan, add the 1/4 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar), and the 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you’re using them for that fantastic little kick). Stir everything together well with a whisk or spoon, ensuring all the ingredients are fully combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes. As it simmers, you’ll notice it start to thicken slightly and develop a beautiful, glossy sheen. At this point, I always recommend giving the sauce a quick taste. This is your chance to adjust seasonings! Sometimes I add a tiny pinch more salt if the soy sauce isn’t quite salty enough for my preference, or a bit more honey if I desire a sweeter profile. This sauce is designed to be well-balanced, a perfect symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   Once your sauce has reached that perfect consistency and flavor, return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the simmering honey garlic butter sauce. Toss the chicken gently but thoroughly to coat every single piece in that glorious, sticky sauce. Let it simmer together for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough for the chicken to heat through completely and for the sauce to cling beautifully to each piece. This final simmer allows the chicken to truly absorb all those incredible flavors, making it moist and unbelievably delicious. Once coated and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking the chicken.

Mastering the Creamy Mac and Cheese

What’s a delicious chicken dish without a perfect side? Our creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food companion to our High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken, offering a delightful contrast in texture and a rich, cheesy counterpoint that truly completes the meal.

6. Cook the Pasta:

   Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is essential not just for seasoning the pasta itself, but also for enhancing its flavor. Add 12 oz of elbow macaroni (or your preferred small pasta shape, like shells or cavatappi, which are excellent for catching sauce) and cook according to package directions until al dente. This usually means it’s tender but still has a slight bite to it, not mushy. Remember, it will continue to cook a little in the hot cheese sauce, especially if you plan to bake it later. Once cooked to your liking, drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta; the starches left on the surface are vital as they help the cheese sauce cling beautifully to every noodle, resulting in a richer, creamier end product.

7. Make the Roux:

   In a separate large saucepan or a sturdy Dutch oven (which I highly recommend for its even heat distribution), melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted and gently bubbling, sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Immediately begin to whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth paste known as a roux. This is the fundamental base that will thicken our entire cheese sauce. Cook it until it’s lightly golden and smells slightly nutty, like toasted flour. This crucial step is important to cook out the raw flour taste, which can otherwise leave an unpleasant chalkiness in your sauce.

8. Create the Cheese Sauce Base:

   Now, gradually whisk in 3 cups of slightly warmed whole milk, adding it a little at a time into your roux. It’s important to whisk constantly and vigorously as you add the milk to prevent any lumps from forming. The mixture will begin to thicken as you incorporate the milk. Once all the milk is added and the sauce is smooth, bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, continuing to whisk occasionally. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened enough to generously coat the back of a spoon. It should be visibly thick and creamy, ready for the cheese. Remove the pan from the heat at this stage.

   Pro Tip for a Smooth Sauce: Warming the milk beforehand really helps prevent lumps and ensures a smoother, quicker-to-thicken sauce. Cold milk hitting a hot roux can sometimes cause the flour to seize up and create stubborn lumps.

9. Melt in the Cheese:

   Now for the most exciting part – adding the cheese! Stir in 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder (remember, this is for flavor enhancement, not a mustardy taste!), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (if you’re using it) into your thickened milk sauce. Then, add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of your chosen shredded Gruyere or Monterey Jack cheese. Stir continuously with a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula until all the cheese has completely melted into a wonderfully smooth, glossy, and incredibly creamy sauce. Ensure there are absolutely no lumps of cheese remaining! Taste the sauce at this point and adjust seasonings as needed. If you feel it’s too thick, you can always add a splash more warm milk to thin it to your desired consistency. If it needs more tang or depth, a tiny bit more mustard powder or salt can work wonders.

10. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

    Finally, add the drained, cooked macaroni to the large saucepan with your luscious cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly until every single piece of pasta is completely coated in that glorious, cheesy goodness. At this point, your mac and cheese is perfectly creamy, utterly delicious, and ready to serve immediately! It’s a fantastic standalone side.

    Optional Baking Step for Mac and Cheese:

    If you prefer a baked mac and cheese with a golden, crunchy topping, you can take it a step further. Transfer the entire mac and cheese mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a small separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese with about 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs (Panko gives the best crunch!) and a drizzle of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and delightfully bubbly. This adds an amazing textural contrast that I absolutely adore and makes it feel extra special.

Assembling and Serving Your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese

The moment has arrived! Bringing these two incredible, flavor-packed components together for a truly satisfying and memorable meal.

11. Garnish and Serve:

    To serve your magnificent High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese, spoon a generous portion of the incredibly creamy mac and cheese onto each plate. Alongside it, arrange a good helping of the sticky honey garlic butter chicken, ensuring each piece is glistening with that gorgeous sauce. Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining sauce from the chicken pan over both the chicken and the mac and cheese – don’t let any of that precious, flavor-packed liquid go to waste! Finally, for a final flourish and a burst of freshness, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley. If you’re feeling fancy and want an extra layer of flavor and texture, a few toasted sesame seeds scattered over the chicken will add a delightful nutty crunch. The fresh parsley adds a pop of vibrant color and a lovely herbaceous note that beautifully cuts through the richness of the dish, while sesame seeds provide a subtle, satisfying crunch.

    Serving Suggestion: This dish is quite rich and satisfying on its own, so I often like to pair it with a simple, fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. This provides a refreshing counterpoint and helps balance the meal. Alternatively, some steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or asparagus would also make fantastic and wholesome vegetable companions, adding a nutritious touch without overwhelming the main flavors.

    Enjoy every single bite of this incredible, flavor-packed dish! It’s a true crowd-pleaser and a perfect example of comfort food elevated with irresistible, complex flavors. The combination of the sweet and savory chicken with the rich, cheesy mac and cheese is just heavenly. I promise you’ll be making this again and again for its sheer deliciousness and satisfying appeal!

This comprehensive recipe for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese truly hits all the right notes, providing a satisfying, full-flavored meal that’s perfect for weeknights or more special occasions. The detailed steps and helpful tips throughout ensure success for home cooks of all levels, making it a reliable and incredibly delicious choice every single time you crave something comforting yet exciting.

Conclusion:

And so, we arrive at the culmination of our culinary journey – a dish that truly stands out, not just for its incredible flavor but for the sheer satisfaction it delivers with every single bite. I genuinely believe that this particular recipe for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience, a moment of comfort and delight wrapped into one harmonious plate. What makes it a must-try, in my humble opinion, is the masterful balance of textures and tastes. Imagine that perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken, glistening with a sticky, sweet, and pungent honey garlic butter glaze that just clings to every crevice. Then, pair that with the unbelievably creamy, cheesy, and utterly soul-satisfsatisfying macaroni and cheese, and you have a symphony for the senses. It’s hearty without being overly heavy, immensely flavorful, and undeniably satisfying, hitting all the right notes for a memorable dinner that will undoubtedly impress everyone at your table.

This isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a timeless combination elevated to new heights, offering that much-needed protein boost alongside an indulgent side. The blend of savory chicken, the rich, aromatic sauce, and the comforting pasta makes it an absolute winner for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight family dinner, a cozy gathering with friends, or even a special weekend treat. You’ll find yourself craving that distinctive sweet and savory punch long after the last morsel is gone. It’s the kind of dish that garners requests for seconds and becomes a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, providing not just sustenance but genuine joy and warmth.

Now, while this dish is absolutely perfect as is, part of the fun of cooking is making it your own! For serving suggestions, beyond the glorious mac and cheese, consider adding a vibrant green vegetable to the side to cut through the richness and add a pop of color and freshness. Steamed asparagus, blanched green beans, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would be excellent choices. The slight acidity from the salad would beautifully complement the sweet and savory notes of the chicken. If you’re looking to make it a bit more substantial, some crusty bread for soaking up any extra sauce from the mac and cheese would be divine.

For variations, the possibilities are truly endless! If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the honey garlic butter sauce would provide a delightful kick. You could also experiment with different cheeses in your mac and cheese; while cheddar is classic, a blend of Gruyère and fontina would add an extra layer of nutty creaminess. For those looking to lighten things up slightly without sacrificing flavor, consider swapping out some of the butter for a good quality olive oil, or using whole wheat pasta in the mac and cheese. You could even try baking the chicken instead of pan-frying for a slightly different texture, or if you have an air fryer, that would work wonderfully for achieving extra crispness with less oil. Don’t hesitate to toss in some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives over the finished dish for an extra layer of aroma and visual appeal. For a fun twist, try incorporating some roasted bell peppers or caramelized onions into the mac and cheese itself for added depth.

I cannot stress enough how much I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken With Mac Cheese a try. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from creating something so delicious from scratch, something that brings smiles and full bellies to your loved ones. Don’t be intimidated; the process is incredibly rewarding, and the end result speaks for itself. Once you’ve experienced the magic of this meal, I would absolutely love for you to share your cooking journey! Tell me about your experience in the kitchen, share photos of your magnificent creation, or even let me know if you came up with your own clever variations. Your feedback and creativity inspire me and other home cooks alike. So, go forth, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that promises to be nothing short of delicious. Happy cooking!