High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese
A delicious and hearty mac and cheese dish incorporating juicy chicken and honey BBQ sauce, packed with protein and flavor for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced Ensure chicken is cooked through.
Sauces and Spices
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce Use high-quality sauce for best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional) For a crispy topping.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional) Adds visual appeal.
Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey BBQ sauce over it. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the BBQ chicken mixture. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing thoroughly.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or oven.