Description

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a comforting and flavorful meal featuring tender seared chicken breasts coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic butter sauce, served alongside creamy homemade mac & cheese. Perfect for those craving a hearty yet simple dish that combines classic comforts with a protein boost.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Sauce

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Macaroni and Cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.
Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey and a pinch of salt, letting the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and toss them well to evenly coat with the honey garlic butter sauce.
Cook the Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
Prepare the Mac & Cheese: In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce consistency. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Combine and Serve: Toss the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce to coat evenly. Plate the creamy mac & cheese and top each serving with a honey garlic butter coated chicken breast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the honey garlic butter sauce a bit longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor in the mac & cheese; feel free to mix cheeses for variation.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a nice touch of color and freshness.
This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Honey Garlic Chicken, Butter Chicken, Mac & Cheese, High Protein Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner Recipe, Family Meal