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–+ servings
Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese with a Protein Boost

This Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese offers a delicious and health-conscious twist on classic comfort food, packed with protein and endless customization options.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Fat-Free Cottage Cheese Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 4 oz Light Cream Cheese Reduced-fat cream cheese is also an option.
  • 1 cup Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese Swap with any preferred melting cheese.
  • 1 cup Semi-Skimmed Milk (2%) Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Use fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can intensify the flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Kosher salt is recommended for controlled flavor.
  • 2 tsp Mustard Dijon mustard is a great alternative.
For the Chicken
  • 2 cups Diced Chicken Breasts Can substitute with turkey or plant-based protein.
  • 2 tbsp Honey Maple syrup can be used as a vegan substitute.
  • 1 tsp Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can be used for more intensity.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Sauté fresh onion beforehand for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup Reduced BBQ Sauce Opt for low-sodium varieties.
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Other pasta types can work as well.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper White pepper can be used for milder flavors.
  • 1 spray Low-Calorie Cooking Spray Use olive oil for a healthier fat option.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tbsp Parsley Chives can be substituted for a different flavor.

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Blender
  • large pot
  • Saucepan
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by seasoning diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Cook in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes until golden, or sauté in a pan for 6–8 minutes. Toss cooked chicken in a bowl with honey and BBQ sauce.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve a cup of starchy water before draining.
  3. Blend cottage cheese, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, paprika, and mustard until smooth. Cook in a saucepan over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until thickened, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  4. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce in a mixing bowl. Fold in honey BBQ chicken and let sit for 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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