High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep

Are you ready for a flavor explosion in a bowl?

Imagine a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese that’s not just comforting but also packed with protein! The High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is here to tickle your tastebuds while keeping dinner simple and satisfying. This one-pan dish combines juicy honey BBQ chicken with rich macaroni and cheese for a meal that’s both easy to whip up and perfect for meal prepping. Yum, right?

Why make this recipe

Here’s the deal: meal prep can sometimes feel like a chore, but not with this dish. It’s a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, who doesn’t love the bonus of minimal cleanup? You’ll have your delicious meal, and you won’t be left scrubbing a mountain of pots and pans afterward. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Keep it simple and delish:

• 2 cups macaroni
• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup low-fat cheese
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: green onions, extra cheese

Directions

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Follow these steps to create your tasty masterpiece:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and milk. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked macaroni and cheese to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
6. Let cool, portion into meal prep containers, and store in the refrigerator.

How to make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep (Overview)

Making this dish is a breeze, really! Say goodbye to complicated steps and hello to a quick dinner fix. Start with boiling the macaroni while you shred that chicken, mix everything in a bowl, and then pop it in the oven. Here’s a pro tip: Don’t skip adding the honey; it’s the secret ingredient that elevates the BBQ flavor to new heights. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!

How to serve High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep

Serving ideas? Oh, I’ve got a few! The gooey, cheesy goodness looks vibrant with crispy green onions sprinkled on top. Pair it up with a crunchy side salad for some texture. The aroma wafting through your kitchen might just make your family appear out of nowhere with a craving. Who could resist a bubbling, cheesy dish right out of the oven?

How to store High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep

This beauty lasts for about 3-4 days in the fridge, perfect for your weekly meal prep. Planning to make it ahead? You can also freeze it, and it should stay good for up to 3 months! Just remember to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. Reheating is easy—just pop it in the microwave, and voilà, dinner is served!

Tips to make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep

• Mix it up: Swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese lovers rejoice!: Add more flavors by mixing different cheeses.
• Set a timer when baking—to avoid overcooking and ensure that cheese is just right.
• Try some spices! A dash of smoked paprika adds a delightful depth.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You could totally throw in some roasted veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Want a twist? Use sriracha instead of BBQ sauce for a spicy kick. There are endless ways to get creative.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat macaroni instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat macaroni is a great twist to boost fiber content.

How do I freeze this meal prep?

Cool it completely, portion it into individual containers, and label with the date. It keeps well for about three months!

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein and use vegan cheese and milk.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese dish combines juicy honey BBQ chicken with rich macaroni, perfect for meal prepping and family-friendly dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta

• 2 cups macaroni

Chicken

• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded

Cheese and Sauces

• 1 cup low-fat cheese Additional cheese can be added on top
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey Secret ingredient for flavor
• 1 cup milk

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• green onions For garnish
• extra cheese Optional, for topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, honey, and milk. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked macaroni and low-fat cheese to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired.

Baking

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
2. Let cool, portion into meal prep containers, and store in the refrigerator.

Notes

This dish can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating is easy in the microwave. Don't skip adding honey for extra flavor!