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Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes

This dish combines tender cubes of chicken breasts marinated in olive oil, garlic, and warm spices, cooked until juicy and coated with a glossy honey garlic butter sauce. Alongside, elbow macaroni is cooked al dente and enveloped in a luscious sauce of melted mozzarella, cheddar, garlic, and smoky paprika, enriched by heavy cream. This pairing delivers comfort and protein in every bite, ideal for easy weeknight meals or meal prep. Its balance of savory and subtly sweet flavors brings a rich depth that's both satisfying and nourishing.

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Updated on Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:14:09 GMT
A plate of food with mac and cheese and chicken. Pin
A plate of food with mac and cheese and chicken. | applefoodie.com

This high-protein honey garlic butter chicken with mac and cheese brings together everything I love about a comforting yet nourishing meal. The sweet-savory chicken and melty mac and cheese make for a crave-worthy duo that fuels my week while making every bite feel special. Anytime I prep this for dinners or meals on the go, I know I'm set for something truly satisfying.

I started looking for a go-to meal prep idea that kept me full without breaking the bank and this one quickly became my most-requested dish by friends and family. Something about the sweet garlic glaze and creamy noodles always brings everyone to the table in seconds.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: bring lean protein and are easy to cook evenly. Choose plump boneless pieces for tenderness
  • Olive oil: enhances the marinade and helps the chicken stay juicy. Look for extra virgin for the best flavor
  • Garlic: delivers depth and aroma. Fresh cloves are best but you can use pre-chopped in a pinch
  • Butter: gives richness to both the chicken and the sauce. European-style butter is especially creamy
  • Honey: adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors. Raw honey gives a deeper taste
  • Parsley: brightens everything up. Fresh is best but dried works if you need to substitute
  • Heavy cream: makes the mac and cheese ultra creamy. Choose one without additives for a smoother sauce
  • Mozzarella: melts easily and provides that signature gooey pull. Shred your own for best results
  • Cheddar cheese: brings sharp flavor to balance the other cheeses. A sharp aged cheddar is my favorite for big flavor
  • Elbow macaroni: is a classic in mac and cheese for a reason. Look for bronze-cut pasta for better sauce cling
  • Spices: like smoked paprika garlic powder and dried parsley blend for complex flavor. Choose smoked paprika for subtle heat and aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
Combine cubed chicken with olive oil minced garlic smoked paprika garlic powder parsley salt and black pepper in a large mixing bowl Mix thoroughly so the chicken is well coated Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to infuse flavor while you prepare other ingredients
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add the marinated chicken in a single layer Cook for 10 to 15 minutes stirring occasionally so all sides brown and the chicken cooks through Lower the heat and stir in the butter honey and another sprinkle of parsley Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the glistening sauce Remove from heat and set aside
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet add a little butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat Sprinkle in minced garlic and let it cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant Pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble gently but not boil so the dairy doesn't split
Melt the Cheese:
Add mozzarella cheddar smoked paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper to the cream sauce Stir slowly over low heat allowing the cheeses to melt into a smooth creamy sauce Take your time here patience prevents a grainy texture
Cook the Pasta:
Boil elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in salted water until just al dente Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking and keep the noodles firm
Combine and Simmer:
Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce tossing so every noodle is coated Set heat to low and let the flavors come together for about 5 minutes stirring gently
Finish and Serve:
Add your honey garlic butter chicken back into the skillet or gently arrange on top for that restaurant-style look Serve immediately or divide between airtight meal prep containers for lunches
A dish of mac and cheese with chicken and honey garlic butter. Pin
A dish of mac and cheese with chicken and honey garlic butter. | applefoodie.com

My favorite part about this recipe is the cheesy pull when you scoop the mac and cheese fresh from the pan Sometimes my kids argue over who gets the cheesiest serving and it always makes me smile to see them this excited about dinner

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days If you make ahead for meal prep add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop The sauce will come back to life beautifully For longer storage freeze the chicken and mac and cheese separately for up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If chicken breasts feel too lean you can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor For a vegetarian take use firm tofu cubes and follow the same marinating process Dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter also work well if you need to keep things lactose free Try coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a unique twist and a subtle nuttiness

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty meal with a big green salad fresh steamed broccoli or simple roasted veggies for a well-rounded plate A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a little drizzle of hot honey over the chicken takes things up a notch If you are entertaining consider serving with garlic bread for true comfort food vibes

A bowl of chicken and mac and cheese. Pin
A bowl of chicken and mac and cheese. | applefoodie.com

Cultural Context

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort classic that originated in Europe and found a true home in American kitchens This version blends southern comfort with a sweet Asian-inspired glaze for the chicken creating a cozy mashup that reflects how many families love to cook today

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time as thighs take slightly longer to cook through.

→ How do I keep mac and cheese creamy without graininess?

Use freshly grated cheese and melt it over low heat, avoiding overheating, to maintain a smooth, creamy sauce.

→ What’s the best way to marinate the chicken?

Marinate cubed chicken in olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and parsley for at least 10 minutes; longer marinating intensifies the flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat mac and cheese with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well for meal prep. Flavors deepen overnight, and reheating with a touch of milk keeps textures creamy.

→ Are there alternatives to butter and honey in this dish?

Butter can be swapped with ghee or coconut oil, and honey replaced by maple syrup or brown sugar, adapting to taste preferences.

Honey Garlic Butter Chicken

Tender chicken glazed with honey garlic butter paired with rich and creamy mac and cheese.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
45 min
By: Ava

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Serves (4 meal-prep portions)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

→ Chicken

01 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

→ Marinade

02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 1 teaspoon dried parsley
07 Salt, to taste
08 Black pepper, to taste

→ Sauce

09 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
10 2 tablespoons honey
11 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
12 3 cloves garlic, minced
13 1 cup heavy cream
14 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
18 Salt, to taste
19 Black pepper, to taste

→ Pasta

20 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 02

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked. Reduce heat to low, stir in 1 tablespoon butter, honey, and chopped fresh parsley. Allow butter to melt and coat the chicken. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 03

Using the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 04

Stir in shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 05

Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 06

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 07

Serve immediately warm or portion into four airtight containers for meal prep.

Notes & Tips

  1. Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes to maximize flavor; longer marination enhances taste further.
  2. Avoid overcooking pasta; rinsing under cold water stops the cooking process and keeps pasta al dente.
  3. When reheating mac and cheese, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Necessary Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy and gluten

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice.
  • Calories: 620
  • Fats: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Proteins: 45 g