High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac And Cheese

Introduction

This recipe is all about comfort food with a smart and healthy twist.
High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a warm and creamy dish that brings together soft pasta, juicy chicken, sweet honey BBQ flavor, and rich cheese.
It feels like a classic mac and cheese meal, but with more protein to help your body stay strong and full.
This dish is made for people who love cozy food but also care about what they eat.
Every bite is smooth, cheesy, sweet, and smoky at the same time.
It is perfect for beginners who want a filling meal that is easy to make at home.

People love this recipe because it tastes like a treat but still feels balanced.
The honey BBQ sauce adds a sweet and deep flavor that makes the chicken taste amazing.
The cheese sauce is creamy and comforting, making the pasta soft and rich.
The chicken adds a strong protein boost that keeps hunger away for longer hours.
Many people enjoy this meal because it feels like restaurant food made at home.
It is loved by adults, kids, and anyone who enjoys simple but bold flavors.

You can make this recipe when you want something comforting after a long day.
It is also great for meal prep if you are focused on fitness or muscle building.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, weekend meals, or even special occasions.
If you are feeling tired, stressed, or just craving something warm, this recipe helps.
It brings joy, comfort, and energy all in one bowl.
That is why this high protein mac and cheese is a favorite for many homes.

Ingredients You Will Need

Here is everything you need to make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese at home.

1. Boneless chicken breast, 500 grams

2. Macaroni pasta, 300 grams

3. Honey BBQ sauce, 120 milliliters

4. Olive oil, 2 tablespoons

5. Garlic cloves, 3 pieces, minced

6. Onion, 1 medium size, finely chopped

7. Milk, 2 cups

8. Cheddar cheese, 2 cups, shredded

9. Mozzarella cheese, 1 cup, shredded

10. Cream cheese, 4 tablespoons

11. Butter, 2 tablespoons

12. Salt, 1 teaspoon or to taste

13. Black pepper, 1 teaspoon

14. Paprika powder, 1 teaspoon

15. Cornstarch, 1 tablespoon

16. Water, half cup

17. Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons, chopped

Step by Step Method

Follow these simple steps carefully and you will get a perfect result even if you are new to cooking.

1. Start by boiling water in a large pot.
   Add salt to the water and then add the macaroni pasta.
   Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it becomes soft.
   Once cooked, drain the water and set the pasta aside.

2. Cut the chicken breast into small bite size pieces.
   This helps the chicken cook evenly and mix well with the pasta later.
   Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika powder.
   Mix well so every piece is coated with flavor.

3. Heat olive oil in a large pan on medium heat.
   Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan.
   Cook the chicken for about eight to ten minutes until fully cooked.
   Stir often so the chicken does not burn.

4. Once the chicken is cooked, add honey BBQ sauce to the pan.
   Mix the sauce with the chicken until all pieces are coated well.
   Lower the heat and let it cook for three more minutes.
   This allows the sauce to soak into the chicken.
   Turn off the heat and set the chicken aside.

5. In another pot, add butter and let it melt on low heat.
   Add chopped onion and cook until soft and light golden.
   Add minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.

6. Add milk slowly to the pot while stirring continuously.
   This helps prevent lumps from forming.
   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth.
   Pour this mixture into the milk and keep stirring.

7. Let the sauce cook on low heat until it becomes slightly thick.
   Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted.
   Add cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese slowly.
   Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

8. Add cooked macaroni pasta into the cheese sauce.
   Mix gently so the pasta is fully covered with sauce.
   Add the honey BBQ chicken to the pot.
   Stir carefully until everything is well combined.

9. Taste the dish and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
   Let the mac and cheese cook on low heat for two minutes.
   Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

10. Serve hot and enjoy a creamy, sweet, and protein rich meal.

Why This Recipe Is Special

This recipe is special because it combines comfort food with smart nutrition.
The chicken adds a high amount of protein which helps build and repair muscles.
Protein also helps you feel full for a longer time after eating.
This makes the meal great for people who work out or stay active.

The honey BBQ flavor adds a sweet and smoky taste that makes the dish exciting.
The cheese sauce is rich but balanced with milk instead of heavy cream only.
Using different types of cheese gives depth and creaminess.
It feels indulgent without being too heavy.

This dish is also easy to customize.
You can adjust the cheese, spice, or sauce to your taste.
It works well for meal prep and reheats nicely.
That makes it perfect for busy lifestyles.

Extra Tips for Better Taste

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of packaged cheese for smoother sauce.
Cook the pasta just until soft and not too mushy.
This helps keep the texture perfect.

Add a small amount of smoked paprika for deeper BBQ flavor.
You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

If you like spice, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
For extra protein, add a little Greek yogurt to the sauce.

Always cook on low heat when making cheese sauce.
High heat can cause the sauce to break and become oily.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal.
It is comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one bowl.
This recipe proves that healthy food can still taste amazing.
It is easy enough for beginners and satisfying for experienced cooks.
Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, this dish brings smiles.
Try it once and it may become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Nutrition Details

Below is an easy nutrition overview for this recipe.

Recipe size
Serves 4 people

Nutrition per serving

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 42 grams
Carbohydrates: 48 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 9 grams
Calcium: Good source
Iron: Moderate amount

Values are approximate and may change based on ingredient brands and portion size.

Disclaimer

This recipe and nutrition information is shared for general guidance only.
Everyone’s body reacts differently to food and ingredients.
Results may vary depending on lifestyle, health condition, and portion size.
Always listen to your body and consult a health professional if needed.