High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese (Print Version)
Savor juicy honey garlic butter chicken paired with creamy, protein-packed mac & cheese. A comforting, high-protein meal perfect for family dinners.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Golden Glaze & Sear
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
4 tbsp unsalted butter
04 -
1/4 cup honey
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
07 -
1 tsp cornstarch
08 -
2 tbsp water
09 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Cheesy Comfort
10 -
12 oz elbow macaroni
11 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
12 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
13 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
14 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1 tsp Dijon mustard
16 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
→ Aromatic Foundations & Finishing Touches
17 -
2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; season generously with salt and black pepper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the 12 oz elbow macaroni. This initial prep sets the stage for your delicious High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese.
02 -
Add 12 oz elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside; do not rinse. This ensures your macaroni is ready for the creamy cheesy comfort of the High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned 1.5 lbs chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1/4 cup honey and 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce. Whisk 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water, then add to the skillet. Simmer until thickened.
05 -
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1.5 cups whole milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg until melted and smooth.
06 -
Add the drained 12 oz elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until fully coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm while you finish the chicken. This creamy component is essential for your High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese.
07 -
Return the cooked 1.5 lbs chicken breasts to the skillet with the honey garlic glaze. Turn to coat thoroughly. Slice chicken if desired. Serve this High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken & Mac & Cheese immediately, garnished with 2 tbsp chopped green onions.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce and garlic powder for 15-30 minutes before searing.
02 -
Store leftover chicken and mac & cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
03 -
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier result, adjusting cooking time as needed. For the mac & cheese, try a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for a richer flavor.
04 -
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on the chicken glaze can add a nice kick, or serve with a simple side salad to balance the richness.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Large pot
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 1049 kcal
Total Fat: 47 g
Total Carbohydrate: 90 g
Protein: 97 g