Name: High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces chicken breasts, cubed; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 2 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoon avocado oil or oil of choice; 2 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley; 2 tablespoon butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated mozzarella; ½ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese; 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente; 2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Introduction to High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

If you're a young professional juggling a busy work schedule, you probably know the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. Enter high protein meals like our delicious high protein honey garlic butter chicken. These meals not only satisfy your taste buds but also fuel your body for the demands of your daily routine.

Why should you prioritize high protein foods? For starters, protein plays a crucial role in keeping your energy levels stable, supporting muscle repair, and promoting overall wellness. Studies suggest that including sufficient protein in your diet can enhance satiety, helping you feel fuller longer and reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking. This is especially important when you're balancing long hours at work and social obligations.

Beyond nutritional benefits, the process of making high-protein meals can be therapeutic after a hectic day. Cooking allows you to unwind while preparing nourishing dishes, ultimately leading to healthier eating habits. The high protein honey garlic butter chicken shines here not just for its flavor, but for its protein content, which makes it an ideal option for those keen on maximizing their nutrient intake without sacrificing taste.

Ready to dive into this flavorful recipe that pairs beautifully with creamy mac and cheese? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Creating a delicious and nutritious meal doesn’t have to be complicated! To whip up this fantastic dish, gather the following ingredients for your high protein honey garlic butter chicken and the accompanying mac & cheese.

Chicken Marinade Ingredients

3 chicken breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Mac & Cheese Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated mozzarella
½ cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this dish come together smoothly, you’ll want to have these essentials on hand:

Large Skillet for cooking the chicken and mac & cheese
Measuring Cups & Spoons for accurate measurements

With these ingredients and tools, you're all set to impress your taste buds while enjoying a high-protein meal that balances flavor and health. Ready to dive into the cooking? Let's go!

Preparing High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

If you’re on the lookout for a tasty, high-protein dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than this high protein honey garlic butter chicken! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy mac & cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch prep or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into the steps for creating this delicious recipe!

Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken, as this step really builds flavor. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Let this sit for about 10 minutes. This not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps tenderize it, making each bite a delight. Meanwhile, prepare your other ingredients.

Cook the Chicken

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Add avocado oil or your preferred cooking oil, then the marinated chicken. Cook for around 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's fully cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, reduce the heat to low and stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley. Allow these to melt into the chicken, creating a glossy glaze that enhances the flavor.

Make the Mac & Cheese

Now that your chicken is sizzling, let’s whip up that mac & cheese! In the same skillet (why dirty another pan, right?), toss in butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently bubble. This'll be the base of your cheese sauce. Did you know that heavy cream contains about 36% fat, making it perfect for creating that luscious and creamy consistency?

Melt the Cheese

Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture turns silky and smooth—you’ll want to keep stirring to avoid any clumps.

Cook the Pasta

While the cheese is doing its thing, boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente perfection, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Allow it to simmer on low for about 5 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully. This is often the most satisfying part—just imagine the gooey cheese clinging to every piece of pasta.

Serve and Store

Now it’s time to indulge! Serve your high protein honey garlic butter chicken alongside that cheesy mac & cheese. Enjoy it fresh off the stove or divide it into airtight containers for meal prep. Just remember, this dish can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

This wholesome meal is not just filling but also packed with protein to fuel your day. Plus, it strikes a delightful balance between savory chicken and creamy pasta, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!

Variations on High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Swap Chicken for Turkey or Tofu

If you're looking to mix things up, consider swapping the chicken for turkey or tofu. Both options are great sources of protein and can easily absorb the delicious flavors of the high protein honey garlic butter sauce. Turkey is leaner, while tofu presents a plant-based alternative that's perfect for vegetarians or vegans. Just be sure to marinate the tofu longer for maximum flavor!

Add Veggies to the Mac & Cheese

Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Adding veggies to your mac & cheese not only elevates the dish but also adds vibrant colors and textures. Try incorporating steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. These additions not only enhance the meal's nutritional profile but also create a delightful medley that complements the high protein honey garlic butter chicken. Plus, who can resist a creamy mac & cheese loaded with greens?

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!

Cooking Tips for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Perfecting Your Chicken Marinade

To elevate your high protein honey garlic butter chicken, start with a robust marinade. Combine cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, and spices like smoked paprika and parsley. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes, as this enhances the flavors—think of it as giving your chicken a warm flavor embrace! Don’t hesitate to marinate for longer if time permits; even 30 minutes can make a significant difference. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a bit of honey directly to the marinade.

Achieving Creamy Mac & Cheese

The key to luscious mac & cheese lies in the heavy cream. Begin by sautéing garlic in butter to infuse flavor before adding cream and cheeses. Use freshly grated mozzarella and cheddar for the creamiest texture! As the cheesy mix simmers, don’t forget to stir frequently to prevent sticking. A hidden trick? Using 1 tablespoon of cream cheese can make your cheese sauce even richer and creamier. Be sure to combine the pasta gently, allowing it to absorb that gooey, cheesy goodness. For more tips on making the perfect mac & cheese, check out this guide.

Serving Suggestions for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Pairing Side Dishes

To create a well-rounded meal with your high protein honey garlic butter chicken, consider serving it with nutrient-packed sides. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus pair delightfully, giving a balance to the savory sweetness of the chicken. You might also opt for a refreshing green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Don't forget whole grains like quinoa or brown rice, which can add a hearty touch while keeping the protein levels high.

Creative Plating Ideas

Make your meal visually appealing by playing with the presentation! Serve the high protein honey garlic butter chicken atop a bed of mac & cheese and scatter fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color. For added texture, consider drizzling balsamic glaze around the plate. Use a large, white dish to highlight the vibrant colors of your food, ensuring that each component shines. After all, we eat with our eyes first, right?

For more inspiration on healthy meals, check out these great tips on meal plating and color balance.

Time Breakdown for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Preparation Time
Getting everything ready is a breeze! Expect to spend about 10 minutes marinating the chicken while you gather the rest of the ingredients.

Cooking Time
For the cooking portion, you’ll need around 20-25 minutes. This includes the time to cook the chicken and whip up the creamy mac & cheese.

Total Time
When you combine both preparation and cooking, you’re looking at approximately 30-35 minutes total for a delicious dinner that packs a protein punch!

Cooking should be fun and uncomplicated, and this high protein honey garlic butter chicken recipe makes it just that! If you’re juggling a busy schedule, this dish is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it's perfect for meal prep! Want to dive deeper into the flavors? Check out more about high-protein meals here.

Nutritional Facts for High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

When it comes to meal prep, knowing the nutrition in your dishes is key, especially with the high protein honey garlic butter chicken. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving to keep you informed:

Calories

This delicious blend clocks in at around 450 calories per serving, making it a satisfying choice without overloading on calories.

Protein

Packed with approximately 35 grams of protein, this dish is perfect for those looking to build muscle or maintain a high-protein diet. Chicken is an excellent source, contributing to your daily needs effortlessly.

Sodium

One serving contains about 800 mg of sodium, which is within the general recommended limits. To reduce sodium intake, consider adjusting the added salt or using low-sodium alternatives.

If you're curious about the nutritional details, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for deeper insights into your ingredients. Balancing flavor and nutrition is key to enjoying your meals, and this high protein honey garlic butter chicken certainly delivers on both fronts!

FAQs about High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
To elevate the taste of your high protein honey garlic butter chicken, consider marinating it longer—up to an hour or overnight if possible! You can also add fresh ginger or a splash of soy sauce for a savory twist. Experimenting with spices like cumin or red pepper flakes can introduce heat and depth, too!

What are some alternatives for heavy cream in mac & cheese?
If you're looking to lighten your mac and cheese or need a dairy-free option, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream, cashew cream, or even unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch. These alternatives maintain creaminess while catering to different dietary needs.

Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. Just store the high protein honey garlic butter chicken and mac & cheese in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them together in the microwave, and enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal ready in minutes!

For more tips on meal prepping, check out this resource that dives deeper into effective strategies.

Conclusion on High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

In conclusion, this high protein honey garlic butter chicken dish paired with creamy mac & cheese is a delightful option for any meal. It’s not only packed with flavor but also offers the protein boost many of us need. Enjoy it fresh or store it for later!