High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy comfort food with the delicious flavors of barbecue and honey. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or a nourishing weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic recipe. The tender, juicy chicken breasts are coated in a rich honey barbecue sauce, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the creamy cheese perfectly. Packed with protein from both the chicken and cottage cheese, this dish keeps you full and energized. It’s a wonderful option for families looking to enjoy comfort food without compromising on nutrition.

How to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons honey
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, brush with barbecue sauce, and drizzle honey over it. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
While the chicken bakes, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and fold in the cottage cheese.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a large baking dish.
Once the chicken is done, slice it and arrange on top of the mac and cheese in the baking dish.
Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped green onions and parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy your high protein honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese.

How to Serve High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish is best served hot. You can present it as is or accompany it with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for added nutrition. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a satisfying meal on its own.

How to Store High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Storing leftovers is easy. Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you’re planning to freeze it, make sure to do so before baking. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Perfect

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before cooking.
Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Feel free to add vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to the macaroni for added nutrients.

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. Here are a few variations:

Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for an extra kick.
Cheesy Variations: Swap out sharp cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda for a different cheese experience.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers, and increase the amount of cottage cheese for protein.

Pro Tips for Success

Don’t rush the cooking process. Searing the chicken properly adds flavor and helps keep it juicy.
When making the cheese sauce, be sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
Taste the sauce before mixing it with the macaroni to adjust seasoning as needed.

FAQs About High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately a day in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble and bake as directed.

2. What type of barbecue sauce is best for this recipe?
Choose your favorite barbecue sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, opt for a honey barbecue sauce. For a spicier version, a chipotle or spicy barbecue sauce will enhance the dish.

3. Can I use whole wheat macaroni?
Absolutely! Whole wheat macaroni is a great substitute. It will add additional fiber and nutrients to your meal, making it even healthier.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious meal ideal for any occasion. With its blend of flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish will delight your taste buds while keeping your protein intake high. Enjoy cooking and savoring this wholesome comfort food!

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese blends creamy comfort food with the delicious flavors of barbecue and honey, making it a perfect family meal that is tasty and packed with protein.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use fresh chicken for best flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil For searing the chicken.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a smoky flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce Choose your favorite flavor.
2 tablespoons honey

For the Mac and Cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni Or whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option.
1 tablespoon butter For the cheese sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To create a roux.
2 cups milk Use whole milk for creamier texture.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded for best results.
1 cup cottage cheese Provides protein and creaminess.
1/4 cup chopped green onions For garnish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley For garnish.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, brush with barbecue sauce, and drizzle honey over it.
Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking the Mac and Cheese

While the chicken bakes, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and fold in the cottage cheese.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a large baking dish.
Once the chicken is done, slice it and arrange on top of the mac and cheese in the baking dish.
Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped green onions and parsley.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

This dish can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad. For storage, allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months before baking.

Keyword BBQ Chicken, comfort food, Healthy Meal, high protein, Mac and Cheese