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High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 109 reviews
  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This High-Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese is a comforting and delicious twist on classic mac and cheese, combining tender shredded chicken coated in sweet and tangy honey barbecue sauce with creamy low-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt for a healthier, protein-packed meal. Ideal for family dinners, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer for added texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Chicken Mixture

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup honey barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Creamy Cheese Sauce

  • 1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup milk

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken breast with honey barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to evenly coat all the chicken pieces with the flavorful sauce.
  3. Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the fat-free Greek yogurt and milk until smooth and creamy to form the sauce base.
  4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni, then stir in the Greek yogurt and milk mixture, ensuring that all pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.
  6. Add Chicken Mixture: Fold the honey BBQ coated chicken into the macaroni mixture, mixing gently to combine the flavors evenly.
  7. Incorporate Cheeses: Gradually stir in the shredded low-fat cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and blend into a luscious, creamy consistency throughout the dish.
  8. Add Topping: If using, transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy finishing layer.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the cheese mixture is bubbly and hot.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute elbow macaroni and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Using fat-free Greek yogurt keeps the dish creamy with less fat and added protein.
  • If you prefer a spicier BBQ flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
  • The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: high-protein, chicken mac and cheese, honey BBQ chicken, low-fat mac and cheese, healthy comfort food, baked macaroni and cheese

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Find it online: https://marinamontclair.com/high-protein-honey-bbq-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/