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High-Protein Honey Garlic Chicken

Category: Foolproof Baking Recipes for Everyone

Succulent chicken is marinated in smoked paprika, garlic, and parsley, then cooked with butter and honey for a savory-sweet finish. The creamy mac and cheese uses mozzarella, cheddar, and heavy cream, coming together into a rich, flavorful base seasoned perfectly. Mixing al dente pasta with the cheesy sauce brings both comfort and nourishment in every bite. Enjoy this hearty dish freshly made, or portion out for meal prep throughout the week. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying family dinner or high-protein options for busy nights, this combination satisfies cravings and keeps you fueled.

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Created By Melanie Carter
Updated on Tue, 26 Aug 2025 20:10:29 GMT
Two containers of food on a table. Pin
Two containers of food on a table. | mellierecipes.com

This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese is pure comfort in a bowl. Each bite brings juicy marinated chicken together with creamy cheesy pasta making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or as a protein-rich meal prep option that keeps you satisfied and fueled.

I made this dish on a busy Monday evening and my family devoured the whole pan. Now it is on regular rotation when we want both comfort food and a protein boost.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast: Provides lean high-quality protein Try to buy organic or free-range for best flavor
  • Olive oil: Adds healthy fat and helps the spices coat the chicken Use extra-virgin if possible
  • Fresh garlic: Brings bold flavor throughout the dish Choose firm cloves without green shoots
  • Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth Spanish paprika has a more robust taste
  • Garlic powder: Boosts savory notes while marinating & in the mac and cheese
  • Dried parsley: Lifts flavor and adds herby freshness
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential to enhance all other flavors Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
  • Avocado oil: For high-heat cooking with a neutral taste
  • Butter: Makes the chicken rich and the pasta sauce silky Opt for good quality salted butter
  • Honey: Balances the savoriness and gives the chicken a glossy finish Choose pure raw honey when possible
  • Fresh parsley: Brightens everything when stirred in at the end
  • Heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce Always check for rich, fresh cream
  • Mozzarella and cheddar cheese: Both add stretch and sharpness Use blocks and grate them fresh at home
  • Elbow macaroni: Classic shape for mac and cheese cooks evenly and holds sauce Choose a good brand for better texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
Combine the cubed chicken with olive oil fresh garlic smoked paprika garlic powder parsley salt and black pepper in a large bowl Mix thoroughly so all pieces are evenly coated Let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes while you get everything else ready The spices need this time to infuse the meat
Cook the Chicken:
Heat your large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in avocado oil Add in the marinated chicken cubes Spread them out for even browning Stir occasionally Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until each piece is browned on the edges and cooked through Turn the heat to low add butter honey and chopped parsley Stir well so the glossy sauce coats each chicken piece Set aside but keep warm
Make the Mac and Cheese Base:
In the same skillet drop in the butter over medium heat and let it melt Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape up any browned chicken bits Add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until it smells nutty and is lightly golden
Build the Cheese Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the pan and let it simmer just until it is gently bubbling Reduce heat Stir in mozzarella cheddar smoked paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper Whisk steadily until all the cheese melts and blends into a smooth creamy sauce
Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to the package directions Drain quickly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and keep the pasta springy
Combine and Finish:
Fold the drained pasta into the skillet with the cheese sauce Let it all bubble gently on low heat for five minutes stirring frequently The sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld Add the reserved chicken and its sauce on top or serve side by side
Four containers of food, including macaroni and cheese, chicken wings, and other dishes. Pin
Four containers of food, including macaroni and cheese, chicken wings, and other dishes. | mellierecipes.com

Honey is my secret weapon here It balances the spices and gives the chicken that irresistible caramelized glaze My son once tried to sneak extra honey chicken from my meal prep stash and I caught him with sticky fingers grinning It is that good

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days This meal also freezes well for up to two months Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast for richer flavor If you are dairy-free use a coconut cream and non-dairy cheese blend The honey can be replaced with maple syrup for another natural sweetener

Serving Suggestions

This dish does well on its own but you can pair it with a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli to add freshness Serve in individual bowls to keep everything warm and comfort-packed

A dish of macaroni and cheese. Pin
A dish of macaroni and cheese. | mellierecipes.com

Cultural Context

Mac and cheese has roots in Southern comfort food while honey garlic chicken brings flavors of both Asian and American kitchens This fusion makes it a unique hearty meal loved by adults and kids alike

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Marinating the chicken for at least 10 minutes and not overcooking keeps it juicy and flavorful.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses?

Yes, you can use other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming dry?

Let the pasta cook just to al dente and simmer gently in the sauce. Avoid overbaking or reheating at high temperatures.

→ Is this good for meal prep?

Both chicken and pasta keep well in airtight containers for up to four days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Simple steamed greens or a crisp salad balance the rich flavors and add freshness to the meal.

High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter

Tender honey garlic chicken over mac and cheese with rich, cheesy sauce and a nutritious high-protein twist.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Cooking Time
45 minutes
Created By: Melanie Carter

Recipe Category: Simple Baking

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Style: American

Result Amount: 4 Portions (4 portions)

Diet Preferences: ~

What You’ll Need to Make This

→ Chicken Marinade

01 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
02 30 ml olive oil
03 4 garlic cloves, minced
04 10 ml smoked paprika
05 10 ml garlic powder
06 5 ml dried parsley
07 10 ml salt
08 2.5 ml black pepper

→ For Cooking the Chicken

09 45 ml avocado oil or preferred cooking oil
10 30 g unsalted butter
11 15 ml honey
12 30 ml freshly chopped parsley

→ Mac & Cheese

13 30 g unsalted butter
14 4 garlic cloves, minced
15 475 ml heavy cream
16 60 g freshly grated mozzarella cheese
17 60 g freshly grated cheddar cheese
18 340 g elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
19 10 ml smoked paprika
20 10 ml garlic powder
21 10 ml salt
22 2.5 ml black pepper

How to Prepare

Step 01

Combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat and let marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 02

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil. Add marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Reduce heat to low and stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley, allowing to coat the chicken. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 03

Deglaze the same skillet over medium heat with butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to gently simmer.

Step 04

Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese sauce is melted and smooth.

Step 05

Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.

Step 06

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and let simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to integrate flavors.

Step 07

Plate the mac and cheese with butter honey garlic chicken on top or alongside. Serve warm or divide evenly into four airtight containers for meal prep.

Extra Tips

  1. For enhanced flavor, allow the chicken to marinate longer if time permits.
  2. Freshly grated cheese delivers superior meltability and taste compared to pre-shredded options.
  3. To keep the pasta from overcooking, rinse it briefly after draining.

Tools Required

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you’ve got specific concerns.
  • Contains dairy (butter, cream, cheese)
  • Contains egg and gluten (macaroni)