High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines comfort food with a healthy twist. Packed with protein from chicken and enriched with creamy cheese, this recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing nutrition. The sweet and smoky flavors from honey and BBQ sauce add a unique touch that elevates traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead!

How to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

700g Boneless & Skinless Chicken Breast
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tsp Onion Powder
1 Tsp Smoked Paprika
1 Tsp Garlic Powder
1 Tsp Olive Oil
25g Honey
85g Sugar Free BBQ Sauce
320g Macaroni
340ml Fat Free Evaporated Milk
80g Light Cream Cheese
1.5 Tsp Chicken Stock Powder
100g Grated Light Cheddar Cheese

Directions:

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken breast with salt, onion powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken until it is browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and shred the chicken.
In the same skillet, combine honey and sugar-free BBQ sauce. Add the shredded chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat.
In a large pot, combine the cooked macaroni, evaporated milk, light cream cheese, and chicken stock powder. Stir until mixed well and add the chicken mixture.
Mix in the grated light cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot.

How to Serve High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Serve this dish hot for the best flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some additional smoked paprika or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top before serving.

How to Store High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, in which case it will keep for about 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Tips to Make High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Make sure to not overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente as it will cook a bit more in the oven or when reheating.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
Use a mix of different cheeses for enhanced flavor.
For added texture, consider topping with breadcrumbs and broiling for a crispy finish.

Variation

You can switch up the protein by using shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock powder.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular BBQ sauce instead of sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular BBQ sauce, but keep in mind that it will add more sugar and calories.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, you can include cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce in the chicken seasoning or barbecue sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and heat it up when you’re ready to serve.