Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Savor the creamy, savory goodness of Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese, an easy, delicious meal perfect for any night of the week. This recipe brings together tender chicken glazed in a luscious honey garlic butter sauce paired with rich, comforting mac and cheese that melts in your mouth. It’s the ultimate blend of sweet and savory flavors with a creamy texture that guarantees to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples that come together quickly without any fuss.
• Comfort Food Classic: Combines two all-time favorites into one irresistible dish.
• Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes required, making cooking and cleanup stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, giving you tender chicken, a flavorful sauce, and creamy mac and cheese with a golden finish.

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for quick cooking and juicy results.
• Honey: Adds sweetness that perfectly complements the garlic and butter.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for bold, aromatic flavor.
• Butter: The base of the sauce brings richness and silky texture.
• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce beautifully.
• Milk and Cream: For a creamy mac and cheese base without heaviness.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that packs the perfect punch of flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a slightly nutty finish to the mac and cheese.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish for a burst of color and freshness.

Variations for Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Feel free to customize this dish to your taste or dietary preferences; its straightforward foundation allows for easy swaps and creative twists.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for some heat.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap elbow macaroni with whole wheat for a healthier option.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and cheese substitutes to make it lactose-intolerant friendly.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for added color and nutrients.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for different protein sources.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened. Add shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses, stirring until fully melted and creamy. Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir in honey and a splash of water or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the honey garlic butter sauce over each piece. Allow the chicken to glaze in the sauce for a minute or two. Plate the chicken alongside or over a generous serving of creamy mac and cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

• Use Room Temperature Chicken: This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t Overcook Macaroni: Keep pasta slightly firm to prevent mushy mac and cheese.
• Toast Garlic Gently: Avoid burning garlic to keep the sauce sweet and mellow.
• Use Sharp Cheddar: For bold flavor that balances the sweet honey.
• Rest the Chicken: Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes to retain juices.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten up the plate and add a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus offer a fresh contrast to the creamy richness of this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of mac and cheese in a shallow bowl, drizzle extra honey garlic butter sauce on top, and finish with a dusting of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper for a restaurant-worthy look at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and textures tender.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe as they tend to stay juicier and add extra flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic butter sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to two days, then gently reheat before combining with the chicken.

What type of cheese works best in the mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar cheese pairs perfectly due to its strong flavor and excellent melting qualities, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or gouda for a creamier texture.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Cooking chicken over medium heat and not overcooking it will help stay juicy; resting the chicken before slicing also locks in moisture.

Final Thoughts

Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a heartwarming dish that brings a comforting and indulgent touch to your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for impressing family and friends or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal full of flavor. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite to turn to again and again!

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