Name: High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup milk; 1 cup barbecue sauce (honey-flavored recommended); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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High Protein Honey BBQ is a delightful and filling dish that combines the beloved flavors of honey barbecue with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese. This recipe features high protein honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese, which is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal while supporting their muscle gain goals. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Honey BBQ

This high protein honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience! Here are some reasons to love it:

Rich in protein with 40g per serving, perfect for muscle gain.
Deliciously cheesy with a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Kids love it, making it a family-friendly dinner choice.
Can be customized with various cheeses or add-ins for extra nutrition.
Low carb options available with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients for High Protein Honey BBQ

Gather these items:

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup milk
1 cup barbecue sauce (honey-flavored recommended)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Pour the honey barbecue sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken with barbecue sauce, milk, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect High Protein Honey BBQ

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can use other types of cheese if desired for variations in flavor.
Adjust the barbecue sauce to your taste; try making a homemade healthy high protein BBQ sauce.

Best Ways to Serve High Protein Honey BBQ

Here are some delicious ideas:

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair it with low carb high protein honey BBQ ribs for a hearty feast.
Top with extra cheese and jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How to Store and Reheat High Protein Honey BBQ

For meal prep, this dish can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein Honey BBQ

What’s the secret to perfect High Protein Honey BBQ?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Using quality honey BBQ sauce rich in protein enhances the dish, making it flavorful and nutritious.

Can I make High Protein Honey BBQ ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with High Protein Honey BBQ?

To prevent overcooking the chicken, ensure it’s cut into small, uniform pieces. Also, don’t skip draining the pasta well to avoid a watery dish.

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe - High Protein Honey Bbq - additional detail

Variations of High Protein Honey BBQ You Can Try

Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

Substitute the chicken with turkey for a leaner option.
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
Use whole grain pasta for added fiber.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try our creamy potato soup for a comforting meal!

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

Author: basmer
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: High Protein

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Description

High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a delicious and filling dish packed with flavor and protein.

Instructions

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour the honey barbecue sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken with barbecue sauce, milk, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top, spreading it evenly.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.