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High-Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

A delightful combination of savory chicken and creamy mac and cheese, this dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it perfect for any family gathering or busy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 3 pieces chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or oil of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
For the Mac & Cheese
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika for added flavor in mac & cheese
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder for added flavor in mac & cheese
  • 2 teaspoons salt for seasoning the cheese sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well coated and let marinate for about 10 minutes.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked. Reduce heat to low, then stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley.
Making the Mac & Cheese
  1. In the same skillet, add more butter and minced garlic. Cook until garlic is golden brown, then pour in heavy cream and let it bubble gently.
  2. Add grated mozzarella, grated cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and cheese is melted.
  3. In a separate pot, boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in the skillet and let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and drizzle with any remaining honey garlic butter sauce.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months. Consider marinating the chicken for longer for enhanced flavor.