High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese – Maja’s Recipes

Introduction

Craving comforting flavors that give your body the fuel it needs? This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken paired with creamy Mac & Cheese is a fulfilling, flavor-packed meal built for both muscle-building and maximum satisfaction. The succulent, tender chicken glazed with a sticky honey garlic butter sauce is irresistibly savory-sweet, while the high-protein mac & cheese offers a velvety, cheesy finish—making this recipe a crowd-pleaser for all ages and appetites.

Why This High Protein Meal Shines

Unlike traditional comfort food, this recipe keeps the protein levels high without losing an ounce of flavor. The sticky garlic butter sauce elevates simple chicken breasts, while the mac & cheese is enriched with extra protein from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Whether you’re batch meal prepping, looking to impress dinner guests, or simply seeking a nutritious, satisfying family dinner, this duo is sure to hit the spot.

The Secret to Perfect Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Start by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to ensure a quick cook and juicy tenderness. To get quick, consistent chicken pieces, try prepping with a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper; it’s a time-saver and ensures even cooking. The magic lies in browning the chicken to perfection, then tossing it in a luscious mix of honey, garlic, and melted butter for an unbeatable sticky glaze.

Creamy, High Protein Mac & Cheese

Classic comfort gets a nutritious upgrade: toss in protein-rich cottage cheese and Greek yogurt along with sharp cheddar and whole wheat or high-protein pasta for a creamy, enriched mac & cheese. For the smoothest cheese blend and just-right texture, whip up your sauce in a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender before stirring it through cooked pasta.

Easy Cooking & Expert Tips

For rapid, even browning, use a sturdy nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch, helping to develop that crave-worthy golden crust on your chicken. To check that your chicken reaches the optimal 165°F, rely on a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking—accuracy ensures it stays succulent and safe.

How to Serve for Maximum Appeal

Generously spoon the honey garlic butter chicken over a bed of protein-packed mac & cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and an extra drizzle of honey glaze for a stunning presentation. Pair the dish with crisp green veggies or a simple salad for a rounded, high-protein meal.

Nutritional Information & Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 hearty servings. Each plate (chicken plus mac & cheese) averages 45–55g of protein and 550–650 calories, depending on your chosen ingredients. High in both flavor and nutrition, it’s perfect for refueling post-workout or as a balanced family meal.

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese (Recap)

Succulent chicken glazed in honey garlic butter and served over creamy, protein-enriched mac & cheese makes for a comforting, nutrient-rich dinner. This recipe courts your taste buds and your muscles—ideal for food lovers who want to eat smart without sacrifice.

Instructions

1. Cook your macaroni per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Sauté until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Lower heat to medium, add butter and garlic, stirring until melted and fragrant (1 minute). Pour in honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.
4. Meanwhile, add cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, mustard, and garlic powder to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth, then transfer to a saucepan with cheddar and parmesan. Stir over low heat until melty and creamy, seasoning to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Toss gently until well coated and lusciously creamy. If using, sprinkle with extra cheddar before serving.
6. Plate mac & cheese, top with honey garlic butter chicken, and drizzle with extra glaze from the pan. Garnish with chives or parsley for a vivid finish.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Enjoy a satisfying, high-protein twist on the ultimate comfort food—ideal for anyone looking to nourish and indulge!