Looking for a budget-friendly, high-protein meal prep idea? This Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with creamy Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist. Juicy chicken bites coated in honey butter meet rich, cheesy pasta for a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or prepping ahead for the week.
It’s quick, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy both your cravings and your protein goals!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High protein, budget friendly – Chicken breast and cheese make this both filling and economical.
- Meal prep ready – Divide into containers for 4 meals that reheat beautifully.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour the sweet-savory chicken and cheesy pasta combo.
- Comfort food with a twist – You get the coziness of mac and cheese but with added lean protein.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 3 chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Cooking the Chicken
- 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Mac & Cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup mozzarella, freshly grated
- ½ cup cheddar, freshly grated
- 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients. - Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Lower the heat, stir in butter, honey, and parsley, and let the chicken get coated in the glaze. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Make the Mac & Cheese
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes). Pour in heavy cream and let it gently simmer. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Cook the Pasta
Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. - Combine
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and let it simmer on low for 5 minutes. Stir in the honey garlic butter chicken. - Serve or Meal Prep
Enjoy immediately or portion into 4 airtight containers for easy high-protein meals during the week. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Substitutions
- Protein – Swap chicken breasts with chicken thighs, turkey, or tofu.
- Dairy – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a lighter or lactose-free version.
- Sweetener – Replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
Storage Tips
- Fridge – Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer – Freeze chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat – Add a splash of milk to the pasta when reheating to bring back creaminess.
Top Tips
- Marinate the chicken longer (30+ minutes) for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
- Always reheat mac and cheese slowly with a little milk for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs are extra juicy and flavorful—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?
Use freshly grated cheese and melt it slowly over low heat.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a side salad or steamed veggies for extra fiber. For dessert, try it with a slice of chocolate cherry cake, carrot cake, or tres leches for the ultimate comfort food experience.
✨ This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is the comfort food meal prep you’ll look forward to all week long!