If you’re in the mood for something soul-satisfying yet loaded with protein, prepare to fall in love with this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. This dish blends juicy, flavor-packed chicken tossed in a buttery honey garlic glaze with a lush, creamy mac and cheese that’s pure comfort in every bite. Each forkful is equal parts savory, sweet, and cheesy — it’s a dish I come back to on busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. Whether served family-style or prepped for weekday lunches, it brings big smiles and even bigger flavors.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese lies in the pantry-friendly ingredient list — each component plays a pivotal role, adding next-level flavor, mouthfeel, and a pop of color. Gather these kitchen staples for your new favorite dinner!

Chicken breasts (3, cubed): Lean, high-protein chicken forms the meaty backbone and soaks up every bit of seasoning.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Brings moisture and depth to the marinade while keeping the chicken tender.
Garlic (8 cloves, minced, divided): Divided between chicken and sauce to infuse double the savory aroma.
Smoked paprika (4 tsp, divided): Gives a gentle heat and irresistible smokiness — a must for color and complexity.
Garlic powder (4 tsp, divided): Amplifies garlicky goodness and helps season both pasta and chicken with no effort.
Dried parsley (1 tsp): Adds a pop of color and a mild, herby freshness.
Salt (4 tsp, divided): Essential for drawing out flavors in every layer of the dish.
Black pepper (1 tsp, divided): Just the right kick to balance the rich, creamy base.
Avocado oil (3 tbsp): Neutral and heat-stable, perfect for sautéing the chicken to golden brown.
Butter (4 tbsp, divided): Melts into a luscious, velvety sauce and coats both chicken and pasta.
Honey (1 tbsp): Brings a delightful touch of sweetness that highlights the savory and smoky notes.
Freshly chopped parsley (2 tbsp): Brightens the finished dish and makes each plate picture-perfect.
Heavy cream (2 cups): The secret to ultra-luxurious, decadent mac and cheese sauce.
Freshly grated mozzarella (1/2 cup): Adds a perfect stretch and creamy texture.
Freshly grated cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Gives depth and a punch of classic mac and cheese flavor.
Elbow macaroni (12 oz, cooked al dente): The chewy, bite-sized pasta that catches every drop of cheesy sauce.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, half the garlic, half the smoked paprika, half the garlic powder, dried parsley, half the salt, and half the black pepper in a large bowl. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare everything else. This little rest time lets those flavors really work their way in and ensures your chicken ends up juicy and full of character.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your favorite large skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Tumble in your marinated chicken and sear until it turns beautifully golden and is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. As soon as the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low, then stir in half the butter, the honey, and the chopped parsley. Let all that goodness melt together and glaze the chicken. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Mac & Cheese Base

In the same skillet — no need to clean it, those tasty chicken bits become flavor gold — add the rest of the butter over medium heat. Toss in the remaining minced garlic, letting it sizzle until golden and aromatic (about 2-3 minutes), setting a rich base for your creamy sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle bubble, filling your kitchen with that irresistible, cozy aroma.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Time for the magic! Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, remaining smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything melds into a silky-smooth, drool-worthy sauce that clings to your spoon. This is your cheesy wonderland — take a little taste (I dare you not to!) and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse briefly under cold water to halt the cooking — this simple step keeps your mac and cheese from turning mushy later. Set aside until the sauce is ready.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add your cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce in the skillet, then turn down the heat to low. Let everything bubble away gently for about 5 minutes, allowing every noodle to absorb the creamy, dreamy cheese flavor. Give one final stir — look for glossy, evenly coated pasta — and you’re officially ready to assemble the High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese.

Step 7: Serve & Store

Spoon the cheesy mac onto each plate or meal prep container, then top with the luscious honey garlic butter chicken. Sprinkle with extra parsley for a fresh finish. Serve warm for pure comfort, or pack it up for the best lunches you’ll look forward to all week.

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

Garnishes

This irresistible combo loves a simple finish. Scatter extra freshly chopped parsley or even a drizzle of honey right over the top for sparkle and a touch of sweetness. A twist of cracked black pepper or a light dusting of smoked paprika can add a pretty pop of color and extra depth.

Side Dishes

While High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is satisfying on its own, a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette or some steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans really round out the meal. Their freshness balances the creamy, rich main course with a crisp bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the mac and cheese in the bottom of wide bowls, heaping glazed chicken on top, and finishing with a sprinkle of microgreens or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. For a crowd, bake everything together in a casserole dish, letting the chicken juices mingle with the cheese sauce, then broil until golden and bubbling for a dramatic, crowd-pleasing effect!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This recipe makes fantastic leftovers! Cool everything completely, then transfer the High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days — the flavors somehow get even better by day two.

Freezing

Both the chicken and the mac & cheese freeze well if stored separately. Let them cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for up to two months. For best results, freeze the cheesy pasta without the chicken, then add the freshly reheated chicken on serving day.

Reheating

For the creamiest texture, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream, stirring often. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between. The chicken heats up nicely in a covered skillet or the microwave — just don’t overdo it to avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring even more juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and adjust cooking time as needed — they may take a couple minutes longer to cook through.

Is there a way to lighten up the mac & cheese?

You sure can. Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce, though it’ll be a bit less decadent. You can also use reduced-fat cheeses and whole wheat pasta to boost nutrition.

What’s the best way to meal prep this dish?

When meal prepping High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, divide into individual containers and store in the fridge for up to four days. For optimal texture, keep the chicken and pasta separate until just before reheating.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This is a great dish to scale. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven to ensure everything cooks evenly and adjust seasoning to taste. This dish is a proven hit at potlucks and family dinners.

Is fresh garlic necessary, or can I use jarred garlic?

Fresh garlic delivers the brightest, richest flavor, but jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative if you’re short on time. Use a bit more than the recipe calls for to get the same robust punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving weeknight comfort or an impressive meal prep treat, you simply have to try High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and energizing — made to be shared, savored, and repeated. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready: this recipe is about to become a family favorite.

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

★★★★★

4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this flavorful High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken paired with creamy Mac & Cheese. A hearty and satisfying meal that combines savory chicken with a rich cheese sauce.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Cook marinated chicken in a skillet for 10-15 minutes. Add butter, honey, and parsley. Set aside.
Make the Mac & Cheese: Deglaze skillet with butter, cook garlic, add heavy cream, mozzarella, cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni, drain, and rinse.
Combine: Add pasta to cheese sauce, simmer for 5 minutes.
Serve & Store: Enjoy warm or store in airtight containers.

Notes

You can customize the cheese blend in the mac & cheese to suit your preferences.
Feel free to add extra vegetables to the dish for added nutrition.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 650 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: High-Protein, Chicken Recipe, Mac & Cheese, Honey Garlic Butter Chicken, Creamy Pasta