High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

High protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese became one of my favorite comfort meals during a time when I wanted something indulgent but still packed with satisfying protein. I threw together a quick honey garlic glaze for some chicken tenders and paired it with creamy mac and cheese for balance—and let’s just say the plate was spotless by the end of dinner.

What makes this dish special is the perfect contrast between sweet sticky chicken and rich cheesy pasta. It’s cozy yet energizing hearty without being heavy and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether I’m meal prepping or feeding the whole family it never fails to please.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• For the Chicken:
• Chicken breast or tenders – The lean high-protein base of the dish.
• Garlic – Adds bold flavor to the sauce and complements the honey beautifully.
• Honey – The sweet and sticky element that caramelizes in the pan.
• Soy sauce – Brings depth and savory balance.
• Butter – Helps create a glossy rich glaze.
• Black pepper – Adds a sharp kick that enhances the sweetness.
• Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• For the Mac & Cheese:
• Elbow macaroni – The classic choice that holds sauce beautifully.
• Milk – Forms the creamy base of the cheese sauce.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the sauce bringing bold cheesy flavor.
• Garlic powder – Rounds out the flavor without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper – For balance and seasoning throughout.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Skillet – I use this to cook the chicken and reduce the honey garlic glaze.
• Medium pot – For boiling pasta until perfectly al dente.
• Saucepan – To build the creamy cheese sauce.
• Whisk – Helps blend the cheese sauce into a smooth consistency.
• Tongs – Great for turning the chicken and coating it in glaze.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

I start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil then add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions. I drain and set it aside while I prep the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Mac & Cheese

In a saucepan I melt the butter over medium heat then whisk in the milk garlic powder salt and pepper. Once warm I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and keep whisking until smooth and creamy. Then I add the pasta and toss to coat completely.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet I heat olive oil over medium heat then add the chicken pieces seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. I cook them for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

Once the chicken is cooked I lower the heat and add butter garlic honey soy sauce and lots of cracked black pepper directly into the pan. I let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.

Step 5: Serve

I plate the creamy mac and cheese and top or serve it alongside the glazed honey garlic butter chicken then garnish with a little chopped parsley if I want a pop of green.

Tips

For an even creamier mac I sometimes stir in a bit of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. You can use whole wheat or protein pasta for an extra nutrition boost. I also love using boneless skinless chicken thighs if I want more flavor—they stay super juicy.

Ways to Serve

This dish is complete as is but I sometimes add steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for freshness. For meal prep I store the mac and chicken in separate containers and reheat gently to keep everything tasting fresh and creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make high protein honey garlic butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes just store it in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to keep the glaze loose.

What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is classic but shells or cavatappi are great alternatives that hold cheese sauce well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely! Thighs stay extra juicy and soak up the glaze beautifully.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this high protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac & cheese a try! It’s one of those meals that feels like comfort food but keeps you full and fueled. Let me know how you customize it or if you add a spicy twist—I love hearing your versions!

Happy Cooking!

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