High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese (Print Version)
Creamy mac and cheese meets smoky honey BBQ chicken in this high-protein comfort dish. A satisfying meal for dinner or a hearty lunch.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Honey BBQ Powerhouse
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 cup honey BBQ sauce
03 -
2 tbsp honey
04 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
05 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ The Golden Noodle Embrace
07 -
12 oz high-protein elbow macaroni
08 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
09 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
10 -
3 cups 2% milk
→ The Creamy Cheesy Core
11 -
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12 -
4 oz light cream cheese, softened
13 -
1 tsp Dijon mustard
14 -
Pinch of ground nutmeg
→ Finishing Touches & Flavor Boosters
15 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
16 -
1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Season 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In an oven-safe skillet, sear chicken until golden. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
02 -
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup honey BBQ sauce and 2 tbsp honey. Mix well to coat. This forms the flavorful core of your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
03 -
Cook 12 oz high-protein elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Do not rinse. This ensures the pasta will absorb the creamy cheese sauce perfectly for your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
04 -
In a large pot, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 3 cups 2% milk until thickened. Stir in 4 oz light cream cheese, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of ground nutmeg until smooth.
05 -
Remove from heat and gradually stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich, creamy sauce is essential for the ultimate High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese.
06 -
Add the cooked macaroni and sauced chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
07 -
Let the High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Cooking Tip: For extra tender chicken, consider poaching or slow-cooking the chicken breasts before shredding, then toss with the BBQ sauce mixture.
02 -
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Substitution: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer chicken flavor.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: Pair this hearty mac and cheese with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness and add extra vegetables to your meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 791 kcal
Total Fat: 29 g
Total Carbohydrate: 82 g
Protein: 74 g