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Ultimate High Protein Hooney Garlic Chicken and Mac & Cheese

Discover your new favorite high protein hooney garlic chicken, perfectly paired with a rich and creamy mac and cheese. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for healthy dinner recipes protein that don't compromise on flavor. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal or your weekly meal prep, it's the ultimate comfort food with a powerful protein punch.
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Course: Dinner, Main Course, Meal Prep
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chicken and mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, healthy dinner recipes protein, high protein hooney garlic, honey garlic chicken
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 meals
Calories: 1015kcal

Ingredients 

For the Honey Garlic Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast boneless, skinless, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped

For the Creamy Mac & Cheese

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Marinate the chicken by combining the cubed chicken breast, olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated and set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  • Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
  • Sauté the chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cooking for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  • Create the honey garlic glaze by reducing the heat to low and adding 2 tablespoons of butter and the honey to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the butter is melted and the chicken is coated in the glossy sauce. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and transfer the chicken to a separate plate.
  • Start the cheese sauce in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt and deglaze the pan. Sauté the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Whisk in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
  • Serve the creamy mac and cheese immediately, topped with the high protein hooney garlic chicken. Alternatively, divide the dish into four airtight containers for convenient meal prep.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons

Notes

For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes or more. When reheating the mac and cheese, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 1015kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 68g | Fat: 61g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Cholesterol: 220mg | Sodium: 950mg | Potassium: 750mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 1550IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 350mg | Iron: 3.5mg