The aroma of High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in its warm embrace. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness mingling with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. easy chicken sheet pan meal It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that promises to satisfy your cravings and bring laughter to the dinner table.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I substitute for chicken in High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- How long does leftover mac and cheese last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is perfect for those cozy family nights or when you’re trying to impress friends while secretly keeping things simple. Picture this: you’re serving a bowl of this decadent goodness, and everyone’s faces light up with delight. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary superstar, even if you’re just wearing your pajamas.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is super easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds. Visually appealing with its creamy cheese and colorful chicken pieces, it makes every plate pop. This dish is versatile enough for potlucks or family gatherings, where it will undoubtedly steal the show. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it, claiming I had taken mac and cheese to a whole new level!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts provide plenty of protein; adjust based on your crew’s appetite.
Honey BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for maximum flavor impact.
Pasta (Macaroni): Elbow macaroni works best; it captures all that cheesy goodness.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor punch that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with low-fat if you’re watching calories.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps to control the salt level; it adds richness to your cheesy sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning chicken and pasta; don’t skip this step!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances flavors without overwhelming them—perfect balance achieved!
Breadcrumbs (optional): For some crunch on top, mix with melted butter before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. comforting potato casserole.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a large baking dish generously to prevent sticking later on. Set aside while you prepare the other components.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and cooked through—about 7-10 minutes—then remove from heat.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In another pot over medium-low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually whisk in milk until thickened—about 5 minutes— then add shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Add Everything Together: Fold cooked pasta into cheese sauce along with sautéed chicken and half of the honey BBQ sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer mac and cheese mixture into prepared baking dish. Drizzle remaining honey BBQ sauce on top if desired, then sprinkle breadcrumbs for extra texture. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
There you have it! Your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is ready to be devoured! Enjoy every gooey bite as you reminisce about your kitchen triumphs! honey peach grilled cheese.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is not just comfort food; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet honey BBQ sauce creates a dish that’s both indulgent and healthy. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in honey BBQ sauce, then sear it for crispy edges. While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta and prepare the cheese sauce simultaneously to save time. crispy chicken bowl recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even plant-based proteins. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color in your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For consistently great flavor, ensure to season each layer, from the chicken to the cheese sauce. Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt, and don’t skip letting the pasta cool slightly before mixing in the sauce to avoid clumping. [/info_box]
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it within minutes and begged for seconds! Their laughter filled my kitchen, making it one of my favorite cooking memories.
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken in High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?
For more inspiration, check out this Brisket Mac and Cheese recipe.
You can use turkey or plant-based alternatives for a different protein option.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are gluten-free as well.
How long does leftover mac and cheese last in the fridge?
Leftover mac and cheese stays fresh in an airtight container for about three days.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This creamy, cheesy dish features tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table—perfect for both cozy nights in and impressive meals with friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a large baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; cook until browned and cooked through (7-10 minutes).
- In another pot, melt the remaining butter over medium-low heat, stir in flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in milk. Add cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, sautéed chicken, and half of the honey BBQ sauce; mix well.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish, drizzle with remaining BBQ sauce if desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
