High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

by

A delicious, protein-packed meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for meal prep, this dish combines creamy mac & cheese with flavorful honey BBQ chicken, making it an excellent post-workout meal or a satisfying lunch/dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in protein – 59g per serving!
  • Balanced and nutritious – A good mix of protein, carbs, and fats.
  • Meal-prep friendly – Make it in bulk and store for the week!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp olive oil

For the Honey BBQ Sauce:

  • 25g honey
  • 85g reduced sugar BBQ sauce

For the Mac & Cheese:

  • 320g pasta (elbow macaroni or your choice)
  • 340ml fat-free evaporated milk
  • 80g light cream cheese
  • 1.5 tsp chicken stock powder
  • 100g light grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, add cubed chicken.
  2. Season with salt, onion powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil and mix until fully coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, add honey and BBQ sauce to the pan.
  4. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.

Step 3: Prepare the Mac & Cheese

  1. Cook 320g pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan, add 340ml fat-free evaporated milk over low heat.
  3. Stir in 80g light cream cheese and let it melt.
  4. Add 1.5 tsp chicken stock powder for extra flavor.
  5. Slowly mix in 100g grated cheddar cheese and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

  1. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce.
  2. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated.
  3. Serve mac & cheese in a bowl, topped with honey BBQ chicken.
  4. Enjoy your high-protein meal!

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Store in individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Microwave for 2 minutes, stirring halfway, or reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

This meal is a fantastic high-protein, balanced option that you can enjoy throughout the week. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, nutritious, and meal-prep-friendly recipe!

Benefits

This dish is not just delicious but also nutrient-packed, offering numerous benefits for a healthy and active lifestyle:

1. High in Protein

With 59g of protein per serving, this meal is ideal for:

  • Muscle growth & repair – Essential for post-workout recovery.
  • Increased satiety – Keeps you full for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking.

2. Balanced Macronutrients

This dish provides a well-rounded mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, giving you:

  • Sustained energy – Great for fueling workouts or long workdays.
  • Better metabolism – A balanced diet helps maintain metabolic health.

3. Meal-Prep Friendly

  • Saves time – Cook once, eat multiple meals!
  • Budget-friendly – Homemade meals are cheaper and healthier than takeout.
  • Convenient for busy lifestyles – A quick reheat, and you’re good to go!

4. Tasty & Comforting

  • Indulgent yet healthy – A rich, cheesy meal without the guilt!
  • Perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and creamy flavors.
  • Loved by everyone – Great for families, fitness enthusiasts, and food lovers.

Leave a Comment