As I stood by the stove one evening, coaxing a rich, cheesy sauce to life, I couldn’t help but dream about the comfort food of my childhood: mac and cheese. But this time, I was on a mission to elevate it. Enter my High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese—a dish that effortlessly marries nostalgia with nutrition. With its creamy texture and the smoky sweetness of honey BBQ chicken, this recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also turns comfort food into a health-conscious meal. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week, it’s an engaging blend of flavors that champions wholesome ingredients without skimping on taste. Are you ready to rediscover mac and cheese in a way that’s both delicious and nutritious? Let’s dive in! Why is Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese special? Satisfying Flavor: The blend of creamy cheese and smoky honey BBQ chicken creates a mouthwatering taste experience. High in Protein: Packed with protein from the chicken and cottage cheese, this dish keeps you feeling full and fulfilled. Customizable Options: Swap in your favorite protein like tofu or turkey, making it perfect for various dietary needs. Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. A Family Favorite: This is one dish that everyone—from kids to adults—will eagerly dig into, making meals more enjoyable. Feel free to experiment with variations, and if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my Honey BBQ Chicken or Chicken Mac Cheese recipes! Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Ingredients For the Cheese Sauce Fat-free cottage cheese – Adds creaminess and lower fat content; substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar texture. Light cream cheese – Contributes creaminess to the cheese sauce; can be replaced with reduced-fat cream cheese. 30% reduced fat cheddar cheese – Provides flavor and sharpness; swap with any preferred melting cheese like Monterey Jack. Semi-skimmed milk (2%) – Used to thin the cheese sauce; almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option. Garlic powder – Enhances savory flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for stronger flavor. Paprika – Provides slight smokiness and color; smoked paprika can intensify the flavor. Salt – Essential for seasoning; use Kosher salt for a more controlled flavor. Mustard – Adds tang to the cheese sauce; Dijon mustard is a great alternative. For the Chicken Portion Chicken breasts (diced) – Lean protein source; can swap with turkey or plant-based protein. Honey – Sweetens the BBQ sauce; maple syrup can be a vegan substitute. Ground ginger – Adds warmth and flavor depth; fresh ginger can be used for intensity. Onion powder – Common seasoning for depth of flavor; fresh onion can be used, sautéed beforehand. Reduced BBQ sauce – Imparts flavor; opt for low-sodium varieties for health considerations. For the Pasta Base Pasta – The foundation; elbow macaroni is typically used, but other pasta types, including gluten-free options, work great. Other Essentials Black pepper – Adds spice to the dish; white pepper can be used for a milder flavor. Low-calorie cooking spray – For cooking and reducing calories; use olive oil for a healthier fat option. Parsley – For garnishing and a hint of freshness; substitute with chives for a different herby note. With these thoughtfully selected ingredients, you’re just moments away from unlocking the savory goodness of Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese! Get ready for a wholesome, protein-packed dish that’ll fill your heart and your tummy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Step 1: Prepare BBQ Chicken Start by seasoning the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 180°C (350°F) and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, sauté the chicken in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until browned. Once done, toss the cooked chicken with honey and reduced BBQ sauce in the pan to coat evenly. Step 2: Cook Pasta In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a boil. Add in your pasta of choice—elbow macaroni works perfectly for this Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water to help adjust the cheese sauce later, then drain the pasta and set it aside. Step 3: Make Cheese Sauce In a blender, combine the fat-free cottage cheese, light cream cheese, cheddar cheese, semi-skimmed milk, garlic powder, paprika, and mustard. Blend until smooth and creamy. Next, pour this mixture into a saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. If the sauce gets too thick, gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Step 4: Combine and Serve In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheesy sauce, stirring gently to coat every noodle. Once mixed, fold in the honey BBQ chicken until evenly distributed throughout. Transfer the dish to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is ready to be enjoyed! Make Ahead Options These High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the BBQ chicken and cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the cheese sauce is cooled before sealing it, which helps prevent any unwanted condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply cook the pasta (it typically takes about 10 minutes), reheat the chicken and cheese sauce, and mix them all together. This way, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dish ready in no time, making dinner feel effortless without sacrificing flavor! Expert Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Cheese Melting: Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent a grainy texture. This ensures the sauce remains smooth and creamy. Quality BBQ Sauce: Choose high-quality, flavorful BBQ sauce to elevate the taste of your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese. The better the sauce, the better the dish! Breadcrumb Topping: For added texture, consider topping with breadcrumbs and broiling briefly for a crispy finish. This adds a delightful crunch to the creamy dish. Season to Taste: Adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using low-sodium ingredients. Tasting throughout will keep the flavor balanced and delicious. Mix in Veggies: Boost nutrition by incorporating veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Not only do they add color, but they also enhance the overall flavor of your mac and cheese. Storage Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Freezer: You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To maintain creaminess, add a splash of milk while reheating. Gently warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Serving Suggestion: If you have additional toppings like breadcrumbs, add those just before baking to re-crisp when you reheat your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese. Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Variations Feel inspired to make this dish your own with these delightful twists that elevate flavor and nourishment. Vegetable Boost: Add spinach or bell peppers for a nutritional hit that brings vibrant color and texture to your mac & cheese. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap dairy cheeses with cashew cream or vegan cheese, perfect for a creamy texture while keeping it plant-based. Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta types—whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta for extra protein and fiber. Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or jalapeños for an added layer of heat, appealing to those who love a bit of spice in their comfort food. Gourmet Cheeses: Opt for different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a sophisticated flavor profile that takes your mac & cheese to the next level. Herbed Infusion: Swap parsley with fresh basil or cilantro for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor. Flavorful Chicken Substitutes: Replace chicken with turkey or grilled tofu to switch up the protein base while keeping it hearty and filling. Crunchy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan before broiling for a golden, crunchy finish that perfectly contrasts the creamy inside. As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out my Honey BBQ Chicken and Chicken Mac Cheese recipes for more inspiration and delicious combinations! What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides and drinks that complement this creamy, protein-packed dish. Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac & cheese. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and makes every bite even more satisfying. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies bring vibrant flavors and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s wholesome aspects. Coleslaw: The crunch and tang from coleslaw provide a fun contrast, making each mouthful of mac & cheese even more enjoyable. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish, cleansing the palate after the savory main course. Iced Tea: Serve with a glass of iced tea for a refreshing drink that pairs well with the smoky flavors. Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, indulge in fudgy chocolate brownies to end your meal on a sweet, comforting note. Each pairing is crafted to harmonize beautifully with your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, ensuring satisfaction in every bite! Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? I recommend using diced chicken breasts for the best lean protein source. However, you can also substitute turkey for a similar flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, grilled tofu works wonderfully and absorbs the delicious BBQ sauce nicely. How should I store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating! Can I freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese? Absolutely! To freeze, allow your prepared dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. Label them with the date and consume within 2 months for the best flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, stirring in a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick? If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water slowly, stirring it in until you reach the desired consistency. Make sure to do this gradually, so you can control the thickness of your sauce easily. Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? Yes, please be mindful of ingredient substitutions to cater to dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re serving someone with a dairy allergy, you can utilize plant-based cream cheese and almond milk while ensuring the cheese alternatives are dairy-free. Always check BBQ sauce for gluten or dairy, especially in store-bought varieties. Can I add vegetables to my Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese? Very! I often toss in fresh spinach or bell peppers for an added nutrient boost and vibrant color. You can incorporate them during the pasta cooking stage or sauté them briefly before being combined with the chicken and sauce for extra flavor. The more the merrier! Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese for Ultimate Comfort Food Lovers Enjoy this Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, a nutritious twist on a childhood favorite, perfect for comfort food lovers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheese Sauce1 cup fat-free cottage cheese substitute with Greek yogurt for texture8 oz light cream cheese can be replaced with reduced-fat cream cheese2 cups 30% reduced fat cheddar cheese swap with any preferred melting cheese1 cup semi-skimmed milk (2%) almond milk can be used for dairy-free option1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh minced garlic can be used for stronger flavor1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika can intensify the flavor1 teaspoon salt use Kosher salt for controlled flavor1 tablespoon mustard Dijon mustard is a great alternativeFor the Chicken Portion2 cups chicken breasts (diced) can swap with turkey or plant-based protein2 tablespoons honey maple syrup can be a vegan substitute1 teaspoon ground ginger fresh ginger can be used for intensity1 teaspoon onion powder fresh onion can be sautéed beforehand1 cup reduced BBQ sauce opt for low-sodium varietiesFor the Pasta Base8 oz pasta elbow macaroni is typically used, but other types workOther Essentials1 teaspoon black pepper white pepper can be used for milder flavorspray low-calorie cooking spray use olive oil for a healthier fat option2 tablespoons parsley substitute with chives for different herby note Equipment BlenderSaucepanNon-Stick Panlarge potAir Fryer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSeason the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, or sauté in a pan for 6-8 minutes until cooked through. Toss with honey and BBQ sauce.In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.Blend the cottage cheese, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, paprika, and mustard until smooth. Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Add reserved pasta water as needed.Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and mix in the honey BBQ chicken. Serve in a bowl, garnish with parsley, and let sit for 10 minutes before enjoying. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, melt cheese on low heat to keep the texture smooth. Feel free to adjust seasonings and add vegetables for extra nutrition. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
