High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on classic comfort food. It combines tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 9 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken breast with minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil to season evenly.
2. Step 2: Heat a large pan over medium heat, then add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the BBQ sauce and honey until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside.
4. Step 4: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Step 5: In a separate pan over low heat, combine milk, hot sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is coated.
7. Step 7: Add the honey BBQ chicken to the macaroni and cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce.
• Swap out the elbow macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Adjust the hot sauce quantity to control the heat level to your liking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. This dish can also be frozen; cool completely before freezing in a suitable container and consume within 2 months for best quality.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses to create different flavors and textures.

Is it necessary to use hot sauce in the cheese sauce?

No, the hot sauce adds a slight kick, but you can omit it or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder taste.

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 122 reviews

Enjoy a delicious and protein-packed twist on classic mac and cheese with our High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese. Tender chicken breast is seasoned, cooked in a flavorful honey BBQ sauce, and combined with creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Sauce

• 24 ounce boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

• 9 ounce elbow macaroni
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 4 ounce cream cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine diced chicken breast with minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken mixture. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
3. Add BBQ Sauce and Honey: Once the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat and add BBQ sauce and honey to the pan. Toss the chicken well to coat it evenly in the sweet and tangy sauce, then set aside.
4. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate pan on low heat, combine milk, hot sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously to melt the cheeses and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece of pasta is well coated.
7. Mix in the Honey BBQ Chicken: Add the honey BBQ chicken into the mac and cheese mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined, distributing the flavors consistently.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish as a bright, fresh garnish before serving for added color and flavor.

Notes

• This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to make a balanced meal.
• You can freeze leftovers by allowing the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, Mac and Cheese, High Protein, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner