High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Can mac and cheese be both indulgent and healthy? Yes, with the high protein honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese recipe. It combines tender honey BBQ chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. This makes it a perfect high protein comfort dish.

This honey BBQ chicken recipe is a game-changer. It’s a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Each serving has 30 grams of protein and 360 calories.

This bbq chicken recipe is a treat for your taste buds. It also provides a lot of protein, carbs, and essential nutrients. Its unique flavor and protein-rich benefits make it a family favorite.

The high protein content in this honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese recipe is great. It’s a healthy and filling meal option.

Key Takeaways

• Each serving of the high protein honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese contains 30 grams of protein.
• The recipe yields 8 servings, with each serving having 360 calories and 19 grams of total fat.
• The dish can be made with a lower calorie option by reducing the amount of milk and cheese used.
• Using chicken breast instead of chicken thighs can reduce the fat and calorie content of the recipe.
• The honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese recipe has a rating of 4.78 stars based on 9 ratings, making it a tried and tested favorite.
• The recipe preparation time is 29 minutes, and the cooking time for pasta is 8-9 minutes.
• The oven preheat temperature for this recipe is 400ºF, and the serving size is 1 cup (approximately 7 oz).

What Makes This Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Special

This honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese recipe is special because of its unique taste and high protein. The honey’s sweetness and the BBQ sauce’s smokiness mix well. This makes the dish both sweet and savory. It’s also a great choice for a healthy meal because of the easy bbq chicken.

The mix of sweet bbq chicken and macaroni makes the meal satisfying and filling. The homemade bbq chicken is cooked just right, adding a nice texture. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe is high in protein, with 58.4g per serving. It’s also low in calories, with 642 calories per serving. Plus, it can be ready in just 40 minutes.

If you’re looking for a healthy meal or just something delicious, this honey BBQ chicken mac & cheese is perfect. Its unique taste and high protein make it a great choice for a tasty and nutritious meal.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Honey BBQ Chicken

To make the perfect Honey BBQ Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These include bbq chicken thighs, pasta, cheese, and BBQ sauce. The bbq chicken marinade is also important, as it brings flavor to the chicken.

For the best taste, use boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Choose a pasta that holds onto cheese sauce well, like macaroni or shells.

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese is best. The BBQ sauce should be sweet and smoky. You’ll also need olive oil, salt, and pepper to complete the dish. Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes for a sticky bbq chicken effect.

• 3 lbs of boneless skinless bbq chicken thighs
• 1 cup of BBQ sauce
• 1 cup of cheese (combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 cup of pasta (macaroni or shells)
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

With these ingredients, you can make a tasty Honey BBQ Chicken dish. The bbq chicken marinade adds a rich and tangy flavor. The sticky bbq chicken effect makes it hard to resist.

Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed

To make a tasty grilled bbq chicken, you need the right tools. For easy bbq chicken, a saucepan or Dutch oven and a blender are key. An air fryer is also handy for cooking the chicken.

Cooking Vessels

You’ll need a saucepan or Dutch oven for cooking the mac and cheese. A grill or grill pan adds a smoky flavor to the dish.

Utensils and Accessories

Utensils like a spatula, tongs, and kitchen shears are crucial. A good chef’s knife is also important for years of use.

Optional Equipment

Optional tools like a charcoal chimney or butcher paper can enhance the dish. With the right equipment, you can make a delicious grilled bbq chicken easily and enjoy it.

Preparing Your Honey BBQ Sauce From Scratch

To make a tasty honey bbq chicken dish, you need a fantastic honey BBQ sauce. This sauce is crucial for the homemade bbq chicken recipe. It’s made from ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices.

To make the sauce, mix these ingredients in a saucepan and boil them. Then, lower the heat and simmer until it thickens to your liking.

The honey BBQ sauce is great for many dishes, like honey bbq chicken, chicken wings, and BBQ chicken pizza. It’s also kid-friendly, making it perfect for families. You can store it in an airtight glass jar for up to 2 weeks.

• Preparation time: approximately 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 8 to 10 minutes
• Shelf life: up to 1 week in the refrigerator
• Common uses: chicken wings, BBQ chicken pizza, slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken, crock pot ribs

When making the sauce, use top-quality ingredients like pure honey and smoked paprika. The ketchup to brown sugar ratio should be 2:1. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes after boiling, and it’s ready to use. You can use it for many tasty dishes, including homemade bbq chicken and honey bbq chicken mac and cheese.

Mastering the Mac and Cheese Base

To make a tasty bbq chicken recipe, you need to get the mac and cheese right. It’s all about cheese, pasta, and milk. For a high protein twist, mix cheddar and mozzarella. This combo makes the dish creamy and rich.

Blending the cheese sauce is a game-changer. It makes the sauce smooth and creamy. Then, mix it with cooked pasta like cavatappi or elbow macaroni. Stir until the pasta is fully coated.

Here’s what you need for a high protein mac and cheese base:

• 2 cups Italian blend shredded cheese
• 1/2 stick butter
• 2 cups evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic

Follow these tips and use the right ingredients for a creamy mac and cheese. It’s key for your bbq chicken recipe. Aim for a mix of flavors and textures that’s both tasty and high protein.

With practice, you’ll get the hang of making a great mac and cheese base. Try different cheeses and ingredients to find your favorite for your bbq chicken recipe.

How to Cook the Perfect BBQ Chicken

Cooking the perfect BBQ chicken is key to making tasty grilled bbq chicken dishes. Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. For a sweet bbq chicken taste, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder into the seasoning.

There are many ways to cook chicken, but grilling is a favorite. It gives a nice char on the outside and keeps the inside juicy. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 7 minutes per batch, until it hits 165°F inside.

• Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature.
• Don’t press down on the chicken with your spatula while it’s cooking, as this can cause the juices to escape.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

By following these tips and using the right seasoning blend, you can make delicious grilled bbq chicken and sweet bbq chicken dishes. These will surely impress even the most finicky eaters.

Assembling Your Casserole

To start, place a layer of pasta in a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Then, add a layer of easy bbq chicken that’s been marinated in bbq chicken marinade. This gives it a rich flavor. Next, cover the chicken and pasta with cheese sauce.

Keep adding layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of cheese sauce on top.

Here are the key steps to follow:

• Layer the pasta at the bottom of the baking dish
• Add a layer of easy bbq chicken on top of the pasta
• Cover the chicken with a layer of cheese sauce
• Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up

By following these steps, you can make a delicious casserole. It combines the flavors of bbq chicken marinade and cheese sauce. The easy bbq chicken will be tender and juicy, and the cheese sauce will add a creamy texture.

This recipe makes a tasty and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for any occasion.

Tips for the Best Texture and Flavor

Getting the best texture and flavor in your honey bbq chicken mac and cheese is key. A great bbq chicken recipe is crucial. Start by picking the right cheese, as it affects the dish’s texture and taste.

Cheddar and mozzarella cheese make the sauce creamy and smooth. Adding a sharp cheese like Parmesan gives it a salty kick. It’s also important to balance moisture. Cook pasta al dente and keep the cheese sauce just right.

For tasty honey bbq chicken, use a recipe with a sweet and tangy sauce. This enhances the cheese’s richness and adds flavor. To elevate your dish, add salt, pepper, and paprika for extra seasoning.

• Use a variety of cheeses for a rich and complex flavor profile
• Don’t overcook the pasta, as this can lead to a dry and unappetizing texture
• Experiment with different seasoning combinations to find the perfect balance of flavors

Follow these tips and use a good bbq chicken recipe. You’ll make a honey bbq chicken mac and cheese that everyone will love. It’s creamy, tender, and full of flavor, great for any meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

There are many ways to serve your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese. Try pairing it with bbq chicken thighs and sides like coleslaw or baked beans. Baked beans are a favorite among 70% of BBQ fans. You can also offer drinks like iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or beer and wine for adults.

A sticky bbq chicken dish is great for any time. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and roasted sweet potato fries are all tasty sides. For something more filling, make cornbread or grill fresh corn on the cob. With a bit of creativity, you can make a meal that everyone will love.

Here are some popular side dishes that go well with Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese:

• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• Roasted sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw
• Baked beans

Remember, the secret to a great barbecue is offering many options. This way, you can please everyone’s taste and dietary needs. With some planning and creativity, you can make a memorable meal for your guests. So, get creative and enjoy your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese with sticky bbq chicken and your favorite sides!

Conclusion: Making Your Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese a Family Favorite

The Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese recipe is a delightful and nutritious meal. It’s perfect for any household. It combines flavors and high protein, making it both comforting and healthy.

It’s great for busy parents or fitness enthusiasts. This honey bbq chicken recipe is sure to satisfy. It’s a tasty way to fuel your body.

The dish’s success comes from the high protein chicken and creamy mac and cheese. Follow the step-by-step instructions for the best texture and flavor. You can also customize it to fit your dietary needs, making it guilt-free.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese. It will quickly become a family favorite. Its taste and nutritional profile will impress everyone. Enjoy making a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

FAQ

What makes the Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese recipe special?

This recipe combines sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce. It also has high protein from the chicken. This makes it both satisfying and nutritious.

What are the essential ingredients for the perfect Honey BBQ Chicken?

You need chicken breasts, pasta, and cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Don’t forget the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce.

What kitchen equipment and tools are needed to make this recipe?

You’ll need a saucepan or Dutch oven. Also, a spatula, tongs, a blender, and an air fryer or grill.

How do you make the homemade honey BBQ sauce?

Mix honey, BBQ sauce, and spices in a saucepan. Simmer until it thickens. Store it in the fridge for up to a week.

What’s the key to mastering the mac and cheese base?

Use cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Choose pasta that holds sauce well. Blend the cheese sauce for a smooth texture.

How do you cook the perfect BBQ chicken?

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices. Cook in an air fryer or on a grill. Wait until it reaches 165°F and is white and firm.

What are the tips for achieving the best texture and flavor in the Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?

Mix cheddar and mozzarella cheese well. Balance moisture levels. Add extra seasoning like salt, pepper, and paprika.

What are some serving suggestions and pairings for the Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese?

Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or roasted sweet potato fries are great too. Enjoy with iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.