High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese dish combines the comfort of creamy mac and cheese with the smoky sweetness of honey BBQ chicken. It’s a delightful and nutritious meal the whole family will love. With its cheesy goodness and protein-packed chicken, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or any occasion that calls for comfort food.
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This high protein honey BBQ chicken mac and cheese offers a unique twist on traditional mac and cheese by adding savory chicken and a bold barbecue flavor. The high protein content from chicken and cottage cheese makes it a filling meal for kids and adults alike. Plus, the combination of flavors will please even the pickiest eaters, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds.
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 and cheese.
How to Serve High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This dish is best served hot straight from the oven. You can garnish with extra green onions and parsley for a fresh touch. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
How to Store High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Perfect
- Don’t overcook the chicken during the searing step, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce well to ensure it’s creamy and lump-free.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrients.
Flavor Variations
- Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce, such as spicy or honey garlic.
- Add jalapeños for a kick of heat or mix in some cooked bacon for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce in advance and store them separately. Combine with chicken right before serving.
- Use rotisserie chicken as a time-saving option to skip the searing and baking steps.
- Taste the cheese sauce before adding the macaroni and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
FAQs About High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use ground chicken as an alternative. Just cook it thoroughly in the skillet before adding the barbecue sauce. Ground chicken will yield similar delicious flavors.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the cheese sauce for added flavor.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you aren’t a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or even cream cheese for a creamy texture. Adjust the quantity to ensure the sauce remains creamy.
Final Thoughts
High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the best of comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s simple to prepare and offers a rich blend of flavors that will satisfy any appetite. Whether for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the creamy texture, bold BBQ flavor, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones!
High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- 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 and cheese.