Name: Ultimate High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 lb grilled chicken breast, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup honey BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ultimate High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese 🍯🍗🧀

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a healthy comfort food that combines rich flavors with a boost of high-protein goodness, then this Ultimate High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender, BBQ-glazed chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta, this dish is perfect for an easy dinner that satisfies the whole family while packing in nutrients. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate more protein into your meals in a fun and flavorful way.

2. Ingredients

8 oz macaroni or pasta of choice
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
½ cup honey
½ cup barbecue sauce (preferably honey BBQ for extra sweetness)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for a Protein-Packed Chicken Mac and Cheese

Gather Your Ingredients and Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breast. You can bake, grill, or sauté it with some salt and pepper. Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. For extra flavor, you can brush the chicken with some honey BBQ sauce and bake it for a few minutes.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Honey BBQ Sauce Base

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the honey and barbecue sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

Add the Chicken and Cheese

Stir in the cooked chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Lower the heat and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Finish and Garnish

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra cheesy flavor and to enhance the dish, you can stir in a splash of milk or heavy cream to improve the richness. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

4. Storage Tips

This protein-packed chicken mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess if needed.

5. Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty dish with a crisp side salad, such as the Fresh Mediterranean Salad, to add some freshness. For an extra boost of flavor, top with chopped green onions or some extra shredded cheese. This healthy comfort food is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

6. Tips and Variations

For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
If you prefer it spicier, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Use cooked turkey or chicken sausage as alternatives to chicken breast for variety.
Make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with roasted vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini.

7. FAQs about High-Protein Chicken Mac and Cheese

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the pasta with your favorite gluten-free options, such as rice pasta or chickpea pasta, to enjoy a gluten-free, high-protein meal.

What substitutions can I use for the barbecue sauce?

If you’re not a fan of BBQ sauce, you can try a creamy tomato sauce or a spicy buffalo sauce to give it a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The entire process takes roughly 30 minutes — perfect for a quick, nutritious dinner.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store in airtight containers and enjoy leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – perfect for cooking crispy chicken or reheating leftovers with minimal effort.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – enables easy cooking and cleanup when preparing pasta and sautéing ingredients.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – great for grilling chicken breasts quickly and adding smoky flavors.

Investing in these tools can streamline your cooking process and make preparing this easy dinner even more enjoyable.

9. Conclusion

This Ultimate High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe offers a perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. It’s a healthy comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying easy dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a cheesy, savory, and nutritious meal that hits all the right spots!

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese – Ultimate Comfort Food