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High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese with crispy chicken and creamy cheese

High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese

A delicious and satisfying dish combining the comfort of mac and cheese with bold BBQ flavors and high protein for a nutritious meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 460

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Chicken
  • 8 oz high protein pasta (chickpea or lentil pasta)
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (pounded to even thickness)
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded preferred)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder (25-30g protein per scoop)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Cook the high protein pasta according to package directions until al dente (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Slightly undercook the pasta by 1 minute, as it will continue cooking when combined with the hot cheese sauce.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Cut into bite-sized pieces, then return to the skillet with BBQ sauce. Toss to coat evenly and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce caramelizes slightly.
Making Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, whisk together almond milk and Greek yogurt first, then gradually add the protein powder while whisking to prevent clumping.
  2. Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk continuously for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  3. If the sauce seems too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
  2. Gently fold in the BBQ chicken pieces, then remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
  3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and an extra BBQ sauce drizzle if desired.

Notes

For a balanced meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Great for meal prep and freezes well.