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High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

A delightfully comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a honey-garlic glaze served over creamy, dreamy mac & cheese. Perfect for family-friendly dinners!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 700
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 3 pieces chicken breasts (cubed) You can also use thighs for extra tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For marinating the chicken.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh garlic works best.
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Add more for a smokier flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 2 teaspoons salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or oil of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons butter Used for cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Adds sweetness to the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley For garnish.
For the Mac & Cheese
  • 2 cups heavy cream Can substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella Feel free to use your favorite cheese.
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni (cooked al dente) Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken, and cook until fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes). Lower the heat, then toss in butter, honey, and parsley.
Preparation of Cheese Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter, then cook the minced garlic for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble away.
  2. Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, more smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until it’s a creamy delight.
Combining Dish
  1. Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain and rinse.
  2. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, or store in airtight containers for meal prep.

Notes

Letting the chicken marinate enhances the flavor. Toast some breadcrumbs for added texture before serving. Can easily be turned into a vegetarian dish by substituting chicken with chickpeas.