High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
This recipe (1X) yields 4 servings
- Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- Mac & Cheese
- 2 cups high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or regular)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds protein & creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Toppings (optional but recommended)
- chopped green onions
- extra BBQ drizzle
- parsley
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Instructions for High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced chicken and season with:
- salt
- pepper
- garlic powder
- smoked paprika
Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
3️⃣ Make the honey BBQ glaze
Lower the heat slightly.
Add:
- BBQ sauce
- honey
Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes until the chicken becomes sticky and coated.
Set aside.
4️⃣ Make the creamy cheese sauce
In another pan melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds.
Pour in the milk and let it warm.
Add:
- Greek yogurt
- cheddar cheese
- mozzarella
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper.
5️⃣ Combine
Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
6️⃣ Assemble
Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls.
Top with:
- honey BBQ chicken
- chopped green onions
- extra BBQ drizzle
Nutrition Details
Nutrition (Per Serving)
FAQ
High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers for boosting protein, keeping the sauce creamy, reheating leftovers, and easy ingredient swaps.