High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why make this recipe

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the flavors of honey BBQ chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe not only tastes great, but it also packs in protein, making it a filling option for everyone. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes!

How to make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ingredients :

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Green onions for garnish

Directions :

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the milk, honey BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shredded chicken and macaroni to the pot, stirring until well combined.
5. Mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
6. Serve warm, garnished with green onions if desired.

How to serve High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve this dish warm in bowls. You can sprinkle green onions on top for a fresh touch. This meal pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.

How to store High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to eat them within 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Tips to make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Feel free to add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the honey BBQ sauce to your taste; add more for a sweeter flavor or less for a mild one.
• Use gluten-free pasta if you want a gluten-free version.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or using different meats like pulled pork.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shells.

2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and sweet BBQ flavor make it appealing to kids.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

A delicious blend of macaroni and cheese with honey BBQ chicken, packed with protein and perfect for quick weeknight meals.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Chicken Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works well.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to mix types of cheese.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce Adjust to taste.
• 1 cup milk Add more if needed for creaminess.
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Green onions for garnish Optional, for added freshness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

Sauce Preparation

1. Stir in the milk, honey BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Ingredients

1. Add the shredded chicken and macaroni to the pot, stirring until well combined.
2. Mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.

Serving

1. Serve warm, garnished with green onions if desired.

Notes

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.