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
Scale
- 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