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Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese

Delicious Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese

Enjoy this Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese that brings comfort food to a healthy level, packed with flavor and nutrients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Diced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Can swap with whole wheat or gluten-free
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Your favorite kind
  • 2 tablespoons Honey For sweetness
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Can use low-fat
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Use sparingly for health
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Core flavor
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Offers creaminess
Seasonings & Garnish
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Or regular paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • Salt & Black Pepper To taste
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley For garnish
  • Crispy Fried Onions/Bread Crumbs Optional topping

Equipment

  • large deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced chicken breasts seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  2. Reduce heat to medium, stir in BBQ sauce and honey. Cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add elbow macaroni, chicken broth, and whole milk. Ensure pasta is submerged.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in unsalted butter, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella cheese until melted.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
  7. Garnish with parsley and optional crispy toppings before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider varying cheese types and toppings based on preference for a signature dish.

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