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–+ servings
Linda S. Smith

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

A satisfying dish that combines marinated chicken with creamy mac and cheese, packed with protein and a delightful honey-garlic glaze.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 3 pieces chicken breasts (cubed) Substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
For the Mac & Cheese
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s fully cooked.
  2. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the butter, honey, and chopped parsley until everything is coated.
Making the Mac & Cheese
  1. In the same skillet, add more butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently bubble.
  4. Add mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.
  6. Add the pasta to the cheese sauce and let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving
  1. Enjoy it warm or divide into airtight containers for meal prep.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

For garnishing, top with fresh parsley. Pair with a light salad and roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for two months.

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