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High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

A hearty blend of mac and cheese and honey BBQ chicken, this dish is satisfying while boosting protein content, making it a perfect family meal or game day treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Seasoned with salt and pepper.

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Use high-quality cheese for best flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Great for creaminess.
  • 1 cup milk

Sauce

  • ½ cup honey BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For thickening the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For making the roux.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Seasonings

  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Garnish

  • as desired Fresh parsley Optional for garnish.
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Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Cooking

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter, whisking to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the mixture. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  • Stir in the honey BBQ sauce until fully combined.
  • Fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken until everything is well coated in the cheese sauce.
  • Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serving

  • Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

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Notes

To enhance flavors, consider marinating chicken in honey BBQ sauce before cooking. Use high-quality cheese and avoid overcooking the pasta.
Keyword Comfort Food, Family Meal, High Protein, Honey BBQ Chicken, Mac and Cheese