High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Directions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine your cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 2Marinate the chicken for about 10 minutes to soak up all the delicious spices.
  3. 3Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your marinated chicken.
  4. 4Cook the chicken for 10-15 minutes until it’s fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  5. 5Once chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley to coat the chicken in a sweet, buttery glaze.
  6. 6In the same skillet, add more butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat.
  7. 7Sauté additional minced garlic until golden and fragrant.
  8. 8Pour in heavy cream and let it bubble gently to create a luscious base for your cheese sauce.
  9. 9Once your cream is bubbling, stir in mozzarella and cheddar along with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  10. 10Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
  11. 11Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
  12. 12Drain the macaroni well and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.
  13. 13Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
  14. 14Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes so all the flavors can meld beautifully together.
  15. 15Serve warm as an indulgent dinner or divide into airtight containers if you’re meal prepping for later in the week.

Ingredients

  • 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
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated mozzarella
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper

Equipment

large bowllarge skillet

Tips

  • Letting the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes allows the spices to infuse deeply, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
  • Fresh garlic and parsley not only elevate the taste but also provide vibrant color and nutrients that enhance the overall healthiness of your meal.
  • Cooking over medium heat ensures that your chicken gets a nice golden-brown crust without burning, while also allowing it to cook through evenly.
  • Rinsing cooked macaroni prevents it from sticking together, ensuring each piece is enveloped in creamy cheese sauce when served.
  • Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Adding cream cheese or gouda can create different flavor profiles that keep this dish exciting.