Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a satisfying and indulgent meal that combines the rich, savory-sweet flavor of garlic butter glazed chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Packed with protein and full of comforting textures, it’s perfect for a post-workout dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken

boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighsolive oilgarlic cloves (minced)unsalted butterhoneylow sodium soy saucelemon juiceblack peppersaltpaprika

For the mac & cheese

elbow macaroni (or high-protein pasta)unsalted butterall-purpose flourmilkshredded cheddar cheesegrated parmesan cheesesaltblack pepperoptional: garlic powder or mustard powder for extra flavor

directions

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the top. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until well coated. Remove from heat.

In a saucepan, melt butter for the mac & cheese. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened.

Add cheddar and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.

Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well until evenly coated.

Serve chicken slices over or beside a generous scoop of mac & cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken breast with turkey or tofu for different protein sources.

Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein.

Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the mac & cheese for extra nutrients.

Spice up the glaze with a dash of chili flakes or sriracha.

Try smoked gouda or pepper jack in the cheese sauce for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat chicken and mac & cheese in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but the flavor is best when the chicken is freshly cooked in the garlic butter glaze.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The sweet-savory glaze and cheesy pasta are usually a hit with kids.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta works well, such as penne or rotini.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the roux with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. It reheats well and keeps its flavor and texture for several days.

How much protein is in this dish?

Depending on your portions, each serving can offer 35-45g of protein, especially with high-protein pasta.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then glaze in a pan afterward.

Do I have to use soy sauce?

You can substitute with coconut aminos or tamari if preferred.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, it scales up easily—just use a larger skillet and pot.

Conclusion

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a flavorful, nourishing dish that satisfies both your comfort food cravings and your protein needs. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy textures that the whole family will love. Make it part of your weekly rotation and enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing taste.