High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe
This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that combines tender garlic-infused chicken with rich, cheesy macaroni. The chicken is marinated and pan-cooked with a flavorful blend of spices, honey, and butter, then combined with a luscious cheese sauce made from mozzarella, cheddar, and heavy cream. Perfect as a comforting dinner that balances protein and indulgent flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 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
Cooking & Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
- 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture marinate for approximately 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil. Cook the marinated chicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and browned. Then stir in butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley to coat the chicken and create a glossy, flavorful glaze.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add additional minced garlic and butter; sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to gently bubble, preparing for the cheese mixture.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the bubbling cream, mixing until melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
- Cook the Macaroni: Meanwhile, boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce in the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so the pasta can absorb the sauce flavors fully.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.
- Rinsing pasta after cooking helps keep it from overcooking when combined with the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for best melting and flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Keywords: honey garlic chicken, high protein chicken recipe, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop chicken recipe, garlic butter chicken, easy dinner ideas, cheesy pasta with chicken
