Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese Delightful Dish

November 21, 2025July 17, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni

– 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

– 3 tablespoons butter

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1 cup chicken broth

The main ingredients make this dish rich and flavorful. The elbow macaroni serves as a great base, while the chicken adds protein. Butter and garlic create a lovely aroma and taste. Honey brings sweetness, and chicken broth adds depth.

Cheese and Seasonings

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

The cheese blend gives this mac and cheese its creamy texture. Cream cheese makes it rich, while cheddar adds sharpness. Smoked paprika enhances the flavor, and salt and pepper balance everything. Together, they make each bite delicious.

Garnish Ingredients

– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Green onions add a fresh crunch. They also give a pop of color. This simple garnish makes each bowl look great and tastes even better. Plus, it brightens the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Boil a large pot of salted water.

– Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni.

– Cook until al dente, as per package instructions.

– Drain and set aside.

Sautéing the Chicken

– Dice 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

– Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

– Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add the chicken to the skillet and brown for 5-7 minutes.

– Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Preparing the Honey Garlic Sauce

– In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.

– Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

– Pour in 1/4 cup of honey and 1 cup of chicken broth.

– Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Combining the Mac & Cheese

– Lower the heat and return the cooked macaroni and chicken to the skillet.

– Stir in 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese.

– Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted.

Finalizing the Dish

– Taste the mac and cheese and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

– If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of chicken broth.

Serving the Dish

– Sprinkle 1/4 cup of sliced green onions on top.

– Serve hot and enjoy the rich flavors!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Perfect Macaroni

– Tips for al dente pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water. Follow the package time, but check a minute early. You want a slight bite.

– How to avoid sticky mac and cheese: After draining, rinse the macaroni quickly with cold water. This stops cooking and helps prevent sticking.

Making the Sauce

– Adjusting sweetness: Start with the honey in the sauce. Taste as you go. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more broth to balance it.

– Thickening or thinning the sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Cheese Tips

– Choosing the best cheeses: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. The cheddar gives flavor, while cream cheese brings creaminess.

– How to get creamy textures: Add the cheeses slowly over low heat. Stir constantly until melted for that perfect creamy texture.

Variations

Protein Substitutes

You can switch up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works well. Just sauté it until it turns pink. Beef is another option. Use ground beef or diced steak for a hearty twist. If you prefer a vegetarian meal, try using mushrooms or chickpeas. Both options add great texture and flavor.

Cheese Variations

I love to play with different cheeses. Try using mozzarella for a stretchy effect. Gouda adds a nice smokiness. For a sharp bite, add some blue cheese. You can mix cheeses too, creating a unique blend. Adding spices like pepper jack can bring a spicy kick.

Seasoning Adjustments

Spices can change the dish’s flavor. Garlic powder enhances the garlic taste. Onion powder can add a sweet depth. Dried herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the dish. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add heat if you like spice.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

To store leftovers, let your Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Seal it tightly to keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge. It will last about 3-4 days.

When you want to reheat, add a splash of chicken broth. This helps restore creaminess. Heat it in the microwave or on the stove. Stir it often to warm evenly.

Freezing Options

You can freeze mac and cheese safely. After it cools, scoop it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as it expands when frozen. Label the containers with the date. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

When you are ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, place it in cold water. Reheat it on the stove or microwave. Add a bit of broth if needed.

Best Practices

To maintain texture and flavor, avoid freezing it with toppings like green onions. Add them fresh when serving. When stored properly, the dish keeps its taste and texture well.

In the fridge, it lasts about 3-4 days. In the freezer, expect 2-3 months of good quality. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Many brands offer good options that taste great. Check the labels for other ingredients, like chicken broth, to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry.

Can I make this Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it fully and let it cool. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the oven. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal. If you want a bit of crunch, try some garlic bread on the side. These sides balance the creamy mac and cheese well.

How do I adjust the recipe for more or fewer servings?

To adjust the servings, simply multiply or divide the ingredients. For example, if you want to serve eight, double all the ingredients. If you need to serve two, halve them. Keep in mind that cooking times may change slightly with different amounts.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas. Just make sure to cook them before mixing them with the mac and cheese. This adds color and makes the dish more filling.

This blog post covered how to make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac & Cheese. We explored key ingredients, stepped through the cooking process, and discussed tips for making it perfect. I shared variations for proteins and cheeses to suit your taste. Remember, it’s easy to store leftovers while maintaining flavor. With the right adjustments, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the sweet garlic flavor. Dive into this recipe and make it a family favorite toda