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Honey Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Honey Garlic Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese


  • Author: Chef Rina
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

 

High-protein honey garlic chicken with mac and cheese — a hearty, comforting meal perfect for dinner or weekly meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking the Chicken:

  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil (such as avocado or canola oil)

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente

  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

  • Cook the Chicken:
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked through. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in butter, honey, and fresh parsley. Coat the chicken well and set it aside.

  • Make the Cheese Sauce:
    In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble gently.

  • Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
    Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

  • Prepare the Pasta:
    Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

  • Combine:
    Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend.

 

  • Serve:
    Spoon the mac and cheese onto plates and top with the honey garlic chicken. Serve warm or store in airtight containers for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: 750 kcal