Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

by Emily
Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

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A hearty, protein-packed comfort food that’s perfect for meal prep or family dinners. This creamy BBQ chicken mac and cheese combines tender air-fried chicken, smoky honey BBQ flavor, and a rich, cheesy sauce—all made with better-for-you ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Protein-Packed Mac & Cheese

  • High in protein and low in excess fat

  • Made with reduced-fat cheeses and lean chicken breast

  • Features a rich, creamy texture without heavy cream or butter

  • Perfect for meal prep, post-workout meals, or weeknight dinners

  • Crowd-pleasing flavor with sweet and smoky BBQ notes

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chicken:

  • 400g Chicken Breast (diced): Lean, high-protein meat base.

  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Boosts flavor.

  • 1 tsp Onion Powder: Adds depth and savory notes.

  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Brings smoky warmth.

  • 1 tsp Salt & ½ tsp Black Pepper: Basic seasoning.

  • 1 tsp Ground Ginger: Adds a subtle zing.

  • 2 tbsp Honey: Natural sweetness to balance the BBQ.

  • 70g Reduced-Sugar BBQ Sauce: Keeps flavor high and sugars low.

  • Low-Calorie Cooking Spray: For air-frying with minimal fat.

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 150g Fat-Free Cottage Cheese: High protein, creamy base.

  • 200g Light Cream Cheese: Adds smoothness without heavy fat.

  • 150g 30% Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese: Classic flavor with less fat.

  • 150ml Semi-Skimmed Milk (2%): Thins and blends the sauce.

  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder & 1 tsp Dried Parsley: Flavor boosters.

  • ½ tsp Black Pepper, 1 tsp Paprika, 1 tsp Salt: Balanced seasoning.

  • 1 tsp Mustard: Adds tang and depth.

For the Pasta:

  • 300g Pasta (Macaroni or similar): The hearty base for the dish.

  • 1 tsp Salt: For boiling the pasta.

Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

Tips and Tricks

  • Use pre-cooked chicken to save time—just reheat and toss in BBQ sauce.

  • Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

  • Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for even more fiber and protein.

Variations and Customizations

  • Add veggies like steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.

  • Use smoked gouda or Monterey jack for a different cheese profile.

  • Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this mac and cheese with:

  • A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

  • Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots

  • Grilled corn on the cob for a summery vibe

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

  • Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Popular Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Just shred and mix with the honey BBQ sauce before adding to the dish.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble the mac and cheese ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

Is this good for meal prep?

It’s perfect! Portion it into containers and store for a week of high-protein lunches.

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