Description
A delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with creamy macaroni and cheese, high in protein and rich in flavors, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts (cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella
- 1/2 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cubed chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked. Reduce heat, stir in butter, honey, and chopped parsley, and coat the chicken.
- Make the Mac & Cheese: In the same skillet, add more butter to deglaze the pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Melt the Cheese: Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and let simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy warm or divide into airtight containers for meal prep.
Notes
Adjust honey based on sweetness preference. For added crunch, top with breadcrumbs before serving. Customize with vegetables like spinach or peas.