High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort food with a high-protein punch—Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. This recipe is every bit as indulgent and cozy as it sounds, but what makes it truly special is how satisfying and nourishing it is. Juicy, golden-seared chicken coated in a sticky-sweet garlic butter glaze, nestled up against creamy, cheesy mac—this is dinner magic in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a hearty meal after a long day, this dish delivers big-time flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Filling: Packed with protein and ready in under 40 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights when you want something fast but substantial.
• Sweet & Savory Perfection: The honey garlic butter glaze is rich, sticky, and balanced with just the right amount of saltiness.
• Comfort Food Upgrade: Classic mac & cheese meets bold, garlicky chicken—two favorites in one glorious skillet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stores and reheats like a dream, making it an excellent option for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crave-worthy meal happen:

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless for easy prep and high protein content.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for the boldest flavor—this is a key player in the glaze.
• Butter: The base of the sauce—rich, silky, and makes everything better.
• Honey: Adds that signature sweetness to the glaze and helps it caramelize beautifully.
• Soy sauce: Just a splash balances the sweetness with umami depth.
• Macaroni pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta will work.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and brings rich flavor to the mac.
• Milk or cream: For that ultra-creamy, dreamy cheese sauce texture.
• Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to get that perfect golden crust.

Variations

Want to tweak it to your taste or dietary needs? Here are some easy swaps and upgrades:

• Spicy Honey Chicken: Add a touch of chili flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic glaze for a fiery kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken with steamed vegetables or mashed cauliflower instead of mac & cheese.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter, milk, and vegan cheese for a lactose-free version of the mac.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or peas to the mac and cheese for added nutrients and color.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside while you prep the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the honey and soy sauce, then simmer for a few minutes until thick and glossy.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the honey garlic butter sauce. Let it simmer for another few minutes until the chicken is sticky and caramelized.

Step 5: Make the Mac & Cheese

In a separate pot, warm the milk or cream and add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Toss in the cooked macaroni until fully coated.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Spoon a generous helping of mac & cheese onto each plate, then top with slices of the honey garlic butter chicken. Drizzle extra sauce over everything—don’t skip this!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F is your goal for juicy chicken.
• Let the Sauce Thicken: Be patient while simmering the glaze; it should coat the back of a spoon before adding the chicken back in.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic just won’t deliver the same rich flavor in this dish.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect melting—freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better.

How to Serve

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are a few ways to elevate the meal:

Garnish Ideas:

• Fresh parsley or chives for color and a hint of brightness.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like it spicy.
• Extra shredded cheese on top of the mac just before serving.

Side Options:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add some color and texture.

Drink Pairings:

• Iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a chilled glass of white wine all pair beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the chicken and mac separate if possible to preserve texture.

Freezing

Both the chicken and mac freeze well! Let them cool completely, then store in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Microwave or stovetop works for the mac—add a bit of milk to revive the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just skip the searing step and warm the chicken directly in the sauce until heated through. It’s a great shortcut when you’re short on time.

What’s the best type of pasta for mac & cheese?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi, shells, or even rotini work just as well. Just make sure the pasta has nooks and crannies for all that cheesy goodness.

How do I make the dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Everything else stays the same!

Can I bake this as a casserole instead?
Absolutely! After preparing both components, combine them in a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese isn’t just a meal—it’s comfort in every bite. Perfect for when you want something indulgent yet balanced, and a total lifesaver on busy nights. If you’re craving something sweet, savory, creamy, and cheesy all at once, this dish has your name on it. Go ahead, treat yourself—you deserve it!

Print