If you’re craving a comforting, satisfying, and protein-packed meal that checks all the boxes for flavor and convenience, this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy honey garlic butter glaze and pairs it with irresistibly creamy mac and cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, prepping meals for the days ahead, or simply treating yourself to something hearty, this recipe delivers every time.
This article breaks down everything you need to know, from ingredient substitutions to expert tips — all while keeping the Focus Keyword naturally woven into the content. With simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe promises maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons this dish has quickly become a go-to for many home cooks. Here are a few highlights:
Bold and Comforting Flavors:
The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a rich, savory-sweet glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overwhelming it. Paired with a creamy mac and cheese base, the dish offers the kind of comforting warmth that never gets old.
Effortless Preparation:
Despite tasting like something you’d order at a restaurant, this recipe comes together quickly with straightforward instructions and accessible ingredients. Even beginner cooks can achieve impressive results.
High Protein and Meal-Prep Friendly:
With its generous protein content from both the chicken and the dairy components, this meal fuels your body while keeping you satisfied for hours. The components also store extremely well, making it perfect for preparing meals in advance.
Customizable Ingredients:
You can easily switch up the oil, the cut of chicken, the type of pasta, or the cheeses used. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences while holding onto the core flavors.
Ingredient Notes
Below is an overview of what you’ll need to bring this High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese together:
Chicken Marinade:
Cubed chicken breasts
Olive oil
Freshly minced garlic
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Dried parsley
Salt
Black pepper
These ingredients create a flavorful, aromatic base for the chicken. The marinade helps the chicken stay tender while adding depth to every bite.
For Cooking the Chicken:
Avocado oil or any cooking oil you like
Butter
Honey
Freshly chopped parsley
These are key to building that silky honey garlic butter glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
Mac & Cheese:
Butter
Garlic
Heavy cream
Fresh mozzarella
Fresh cheddar
Elbow macaroni
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
This combination creates a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Using freshly grated cheeses results in a smoother, creamier finish.
Ingredient Substitutions:
You can swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs, use a lighter cream, choose a different pasta shape, or play with spice levels. The core method remains the same, so feel free to make the dish your own.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These simple steps guide you through creating a homemade dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.
- Marinate the Chicken:
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add the cubed chicken and toss well to ensure even coating. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can develop. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden on the outside and nearly cooked through. Reduce the heat, then stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley. Let the mixture simmer until a glossy glaze forms and the chicken finishes cooking. - Prepare the Mac & Cheese:
In a separate pot, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it warm gently. Add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar, stirring until they melt into a smooth sauce. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked macaroni and mix until fully coated. - Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese onto plates and top with generous portions of the honey garlic butter chicken. The combination of textures and flavors is deeply satisfying.
Helpful Tips
- For extra texture, sear the chicken in a cast-iron skillet.
- If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers store well in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for Better Results
- Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties for more vibrant flavor.
- Marinate the chicken longer if you want deeper seasoning.
- Add herbs like basil or thyme to brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside steamed vegetables, roasted greens, or a crisp garden salad. If you’re pairing it with a drink, a chilled white wine or a fruity sangria complements the richness beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
Refrigeration:
Store both components in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and mac & cheese together or separate — either option works.
Reheating:
Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round for even heating. For the mac & cheese, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back its silky texture.
Freezing Tips:
While the chicken freezes well, the mac and cheese may thicken after thawing. If freezing, store in separate containers and reheat gently with added cream to revive the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and remain tender and juicy.
Can I change the pasta type?
Absolutely. Any short pasta shape — shells, rotini, penne — will hold the cheese sauce well.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes. Make the chicken and mac & cheese separately, refrigerate, then reheat before serving. It maintains its flavor wonderfully.
High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 1 hr
Description
A high-protein, flavor-packed meal featuring tender honey garlic butter chicken paired with creamy, cheesy mac & cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
3 chicken breasts, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried parsley
2 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For Cooking the Chicken:
3 tbsp avocado oil (or any cooking oil)
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp honey
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Mac & Cheese:
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated mozzarella
½ cup freshly grated cheddar
12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken:
Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add cubed chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned. Stir in butter, honey, and parsley. Cook until the glaze is glossy and chicken is fully cooked. -
Make the Mac & Cheese:
Melt butter in a separate pan and sauté garlic. Add heavy cream and warm gently. Stir in cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add cooked macaroni and mix until fully coated. -
Serve:
Plate the mac & cheese and top with honey garlic butter chicken. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust honey or garlic to taste.
- Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
I’m a passionate home cook sharing easy, flavorful recipes inspired by my roots and travels — bringing a splash of joy and global taste to every family meal.
