Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comfort food hug in a meal, look no further than this Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic butter with a rich, velvety mac and cheese that’s utterly irresistible. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen, delivering both classic homestyle coziness and a dinner table full of smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the aromatic garlic to the creamy cheese, these essentials come together so effortlessly to create a meal that tastes far more complex than the simple list might suggest.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, perfect for soaking up the honey garlic butter glaze.
• 3 tablespoons honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for glaze): Creates a rich, silky base for the honey garlic sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory punch that brightens the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps it brown to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken seasoning.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors throughout the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce or apple cider vinegar (optional): Introduces a hint of tang to balance the sweetness in the glaze.
• 1 cup elbow macaroni: The comforting pasta base for the creamy mac and cheese.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the cheese sauce its signature sharp, rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cheese sauce): Forms the creamy roux foundation for the cheese sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect smooth consistency.
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk (or half-and-half): Creates the creamy, luscious texture of the cheese sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Enhances the garlicky undertone in the cheese sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional): Adds subtle tang and depth to the cheese flavor.
• Chopped fresh or dried parsley for garnish: Brings a fresh pop of color and brightness to the finished plate.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts partially lengthwise. This little trick allows the glaze to seep deep into the meat, making every bite bursting with flavor. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to build a flavorful crust during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Butter Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté until simply fragrant—that’s where the magic begins. Stir in the honey and if you’re using it, add soy sauce or apple cider vinegar for a balancing tang. Let the glaze simmer gently until slightly thickened and beautifully glossy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet or grill pan, then add the chicken breasts. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing a golden brown crust to form. Flip the chicken, and generously brush it with the honey garlic butter glaze. Continue cooking while repeatedly glazing for that sticky, caramelized coating that makes this dish truly special. Check for doneness—it should read 165°F internally—and then let it rest before slicing so the juices settle.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

While the chicken is cooking, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just tender, or al dente. Drain well and keep it ready for the creamy cheese sauce that’s coming next.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mac and Cheese

In another saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a roux—a thickening base that’s the key to silky sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, lower the heat and add your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted, smooth, and luscious. Garlic and mustard powders give that extra flavor punch if you want to be a little adventurous.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until every noodle is wonderfully coated. Plate a generous portion alongside slices of the honey garlic glazed chicken and finish with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh, herbaceous note.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a simple yet stunning garnish that adds brightness and a little visual sparkle to this hearty dish. You could also add a light dusting of smoked paprika or a few shredded cheddar curls for extra flair.

Side Dishes

While the mac and cheese is already the perfect creamy side, you could balance the plate with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for some freshness and textural contrast, making the meal even more well-rounded and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating the sliced honey garlic butter chicken atop a bed of creamy mac and cheese in individual casserole dishes for a cozy, comforting vibe. Another fun idea is layering the chicken slices over the mac and cheese in a casserole dish and broiling for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover honey garlic butter chicken and creamy mac and cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making great leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This dish freezes pretty well. Separate the chicken and mac and cheese for better texture upon reheating. Store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

For juicy chicken and creamy mac and cheese, reheat the components gently. Warm the chicken in a skillet or oven at low temperature to keep it moist. Microwave or reheat the mac and cheese on the stove with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and can stay even juicier with the honey garlic butter glaze. Just adjust your cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the cheese sauce, and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I prepare the creamy mac and cheese in advance?

Yes, you can make the mac and cheese a few hours ahead and gently reheat it before serving. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy and smooth.

What if I don’t have mustard powder or garlic powder?

It’s totally fine to skip those optional spices. Your mac and cheese will still be deliciously rich and flavorful from the cheddar and butter.

How can I tell when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C. If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together sweet, savory, and creamy notes in a way that’s downright irresistible. It’s perfect for those days when you want something special but still easy and comforting. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’s going to be one of your go-to favorites to share with family and friends again and again.

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