Juicy High Protein Honey Garlic Chicken Mac

When I first tasted Juicy High Protein Honey Garlic Chicken Mac, the combination of the tender chicken melded with the rich, creamy sauce was an unforgettable moment. This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, and its balance of flavors combined with high protein content makes it a nourishing meal the whole family will love.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or comforting weekends. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for a satisfying meal later in the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken remains juicy and flavorful with honey garlic marinades.
• The creamy mac and cheese adds a luxurious texture.
• It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cleanup.
• High in protein, it’s great for a filling meal.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make a delightful dish.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp avocado oil (for searing)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)

Consider using coconut oil as a substitute for avocado oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs.
• Use any cheese for a different flavor.
• Honey can be swapped for maple syrup.
• Elbow macaroni can be exchanged for any pasta shape.

How to Make It

Start by preparing your chicken and mac and cheese.

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat avocado oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in honey, heavy cream, mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Combine Ingredients

Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, add the cooked elbow macaroni and the cooked chicken into the sauce. Mix well until everything is coated.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well; just thaw before reheating.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to marinate fully for maximum flavor.
• Use fresh garlic for a more intense taste.
• Stir continuously while melting cheese to prevent clumping.
• Adjust the honey based on your desired sweetness level.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for balance.
• Pair with garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.