Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those days when you crave something comforting yet nutritious. I’ve always loved mac and cheese, but when I discovered how to pack it with protein using shredded chicken and that sweet, tangy honey BBQ sauce, it was a game changer! Seriously, this dish combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken, making it a delightful twist on a classic. Trust me, you’re going to want to dive right in!
Ingredients List
For this deliciously hearty High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup honey BBQ sauce, adjust to your taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, for that melty goodness
1 cup milk, to make it creamy
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened for extra richness
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for flavor
1/2 teaspoon onion powder, because why not?
Salt and pepper to taste, to bring it all together
Make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded beforehand, and your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese
Now, let’s get into the fun part – making this mouthwatering High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese! It’s super straightforward, so don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in your elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes, until al dente. You want it firm but not crunchy, trust me!
While that’s cooking, grab a large pot and combine the shredded chicken, honey BBQ sauce, and milk over medium heat. Stir everything together and let it warm up for about 3-5 minutes, just until it’s heated through.
Next, add the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the chicken mixture. Stir until the cream cheese melts into that luscious sauce – it’s going to be divine!
Once your macaroni is drained, toss it into the pot with the chicken and sauce. Mix it all together until every piece of pasta is coated in that sweet, smoky goodness.
Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s melted and gooey, then remove from heat. And there you have it – a comforting dish that’s ready to serve hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time – you can have this delicious meal on the table in just 35 minutes!
High protein content – packed with shredded chicken, it’s perfect for refueling after a workout.
Flavorful taste – the sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce adds a unique twist that elevates traditional mac and cheese.
Comforting nature – it’s the ultimate cozy dish that warms you up from the inside out.
Easy to customize – feel free to add veggies or swap out the cheese for your favorites!
Tips for Success
To make your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t skimp on the cheese – using a blend of sharp and mild cheddar can really enhance the flavor. If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist. Also, be careful not to overcook your macaroni; it should be al dente to hold up well in the creamy sauce. And remember, if it gets too thick, just stir in a splash of milk to loosen it up. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Section
When you dig into this High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese, you’re not just enjoying a comforting meal; you’re also getting a hearty dose of nutrition! Each serving has approximately 450 calories, 30g of protein, 20g of fat, and 45g of carbs. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, so feel free to adjust based on your specific choices!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap it for any pasta you love, like penne or shells. Just adjust the cooking time if needed!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can! Just follow the recipe up to the point of mixing in the cheese, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, try adding some diced bell peppers, corn, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika. It’ll give your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese another layer of deliciousness!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This mac and cheese reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
Can I make it spicier?
Of course! If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the honey BBQ sauce. It’ll give your dish a delightful spicy kick!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. On the stovetop, add a splash of milk to loosen it up, and heat on low, stirring gently until hot. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite again!
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