High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese – Healthy Dinner & Meal Prep

Imagine tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic butter sauce, folded into creamy mac and cheese. This dish is a perfect balance of protein-packed goodness and rich, cheesy comfort.

Whether you’re meal prepping or making dinner for the family, this recipe brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to the table in just 30 minutes.

Why this dish is a must-try

• The combination of honey, garlic, and butter creates a sauce that is sweet, savory, and utterly addictive.
• Greek yogurt and sharp cheddar cheese make the mac and cheese creamy while keeping it high in protein and lower in fat.
• The entire recipe comes together in one pan, making cleanup quick and easy.

Ingredients you’ll need

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How to make it step by step

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the honey and soy sauce, stirring to combine, then pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and Greek yogurt.

Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through, then garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Pro tips for the best results

• Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the smoothest and creamiest texture in your sauce.
• Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding a little more or less honey to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect pairings for your meal

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans add a healthy vegetable side to your plate.
• Warm garlic bread makes for a satisfying complement to the creamy mac and cheese.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta. Ensure your soy sauce is labeled gluten-free as well.