If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends comfort with a punch of protein, then this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Juicy, tender chicken cubes are bathed in a luscious honey garlic butter sauce, while the creamy, cheesy mac & cheese carries just the right amount of smoky and garlicky flavors. This meal isn’t just satisfying—it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that makes dinner feel like a warm hug on a plate.

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, working together to build layers of flavor without overwhelming the simplicity that makes this dish so special. From the fragrant garlic to the creamy cheeses, here’s what you’ll need.

Chicken breasts, cubed: The star protein, providing the dish’s hearty foundation and ideal texture for saucing.
Olive oil: Helps marinate and tenderize the chicken while adding a subtle fruity undertone.
Garlic, minced: Used both in the marinade and mac & cheese, it infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and depth.
Smoked paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness that complements the honey’s sweetness beautifully.
Garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor in a subtle, seamless way.
Dried parsley: Adds color and a hint of herbal freshness throughout the chicken.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
Avocado oil or oil of choice: Its high smoke point makes it perfect for browning the chicken to perfection.
Butter: Introduces creaminess and richness, key in both the chicken sauce and mac & cheese.
Honey: Offers a natural sweetness that contrasts the savory garlic and butter beautifully.
Freshly chopped parsley: Sprinkled at the end, it brightens the whole dish.
Heavy cream: The base of the velvety mac & cheese sauce.
Mozzarella and cheddar cheese: A blend that gives a gooey, melty texture with sharp, comforting flavor.
Elbow macaroni: Cooked al dente to perfectly soak up the cheese sauce without turning mushy.

How to Make High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss in the cubed chicken breasts and stir until every piece is well-coated. Allow it to sit and soak up those vibrant flavors for at least 30 minutes. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a rich, garlicky backbone that shines through every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil) in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken cubes in the pan, ensuring they’re spaced out so they brown beautifully instead of steaming. Once they develop a golden crust, add the butter, honey, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, letting the sauce thicken slightly and become irresistibly glossy. Cooking the chicken this way locks in juiciness while building that crave-worthy honey garlic butter glaze.

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Gradually stir in your mozzarella and cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to creamy perfection, fold in the cooked elbow macaroni. Stir thoroughly to coat every little noodle in that luscious, cheesy sauce, which perfectly complements the chicken’s bold flavors.

How to Serve High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a burst of vibrant green color and a fragrant, herby note that brightens the dish at the finish. For an extra pop, a light dusting of smoked paprika enhances both appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is already rich and deeply satisfying, lighter sides work best. Think crisp green salads with tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to bring fresh crunch and balance out the meal. A crisp cucumber salad with lemon can also contrast nicely with the creamy elements.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken on a bed of mac & cheese nestled in small cast iron skillets, allowing everyone to enjoy perfectly hot portions right from the oven. Alternatively, layer the chicken over the mac & cheese in a casserole dish and broil briefly to get a golden, bubbling cheese crust that’s impossible to resist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken and mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separating the chicken and pasta if possible helps maintain the best texture when reheated.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if stored properly. Place cooled chicken and mac & cheese separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and warm the mac & cheese on low heat, stirring frequently. You can also use the microwave, but cover loosely to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for cubing and marinating, chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to make this dish lower in fat?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use reduced-fat cheeses to lighten the mac & cheese. Using less butter or replacing it with olive oil in cooking the chicken can also reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild and focuses on smoky paprika and garlic rather than heat, making it accessible for all palates. If you like a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper during seasoning.

Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?

Yes! Marinate the chicken a day ahead to deepen the flavors. You can also cook and refrigerate the macaroni in advance, then reheat it with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess just before serving.

What type of cheeses work best for the mac & cheese?

Mozzarella and cheddar provide the perfect balance of meltiness and sharpness here. You can experiment by adding Parmesan or Gruyère for a nuttier flavor profile if you like.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction, don’t hesitate to try the High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. It’s comfort food elevated, combining the best of creamy, sweet, and savory into one unforgettable plate. Trust me, once you make it, this recipe will be a beloved staple in your dinner rotation!