Advertisement
Stepping into the kitchen, I was engulfed by the aroma of sweet BBQ chicken mingling with creamy cheese and perfectly cooked macaroni. It was time to create my One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese, a dish that truly embodies comfort food at its finest. This recipe not only simplifies weeknight dinners with its quick prep and ease of cleanup, but it also delivers a deliciously satisfying meal for the whole family. Picture a delightful balance of smoky sweetness that dances on your taste buds, inviting each family member to dive in for seconds. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking to impress your loved ones around the dinner table, this one-pot wonder is sure to keep their spirits high. Are you ready to whip up this tasty feast?
Why is this mac and cheese special?
Comforting Combination: This dish marries the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the sweet and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken, creating a delightful symphony for your palate.
One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking! This recipe requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze after your delicious meal.
Advertisement
Quick Weeknight Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you need to serve your family a satisfying dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Adaptable Recipe: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or spices. You could even experiment with a version like Low Calorie Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls Packed With Flavor for a different twist!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy comfort food that doesn’t break the calorie bank. Each serving is packed with protein, making it a guilt-free choice for a hearty meal.
Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese Ingredients
-
For the Chicken
• Diced Chicken (14 oz / 2 boneless, skinless breasts) – Main protein that can be replaced with leftover cooked chicken for a quicker prep.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Essential for sautéing to keep the chicken moist.
• Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Adds an appealing smoky depth to the dish.
• Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor without added calories.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Adjust to taste for just the right seasoning. -
For the Mac & Cheese
• BBQ Sauce (1 cup) – Provides the base flavors; choose a low-calorie option to keep it guilt-free.
• Honey (2 tablespoons) – Adds sweetness; adjust to your taste preference.
• Uncooked Elbow Macaroni (12 oz) – The key carbohydrate; no direct substitutions suggested for best results.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Keeps the dish moist while adding flavor without excess calories.
• Whole Milk (1 cup) – Use reduced-fat milk for a lighter alternative.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups / approx. 7 oz) – The primary cheese; opt for a low-fat version for added health benefits.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup / approx. 3.5 oz) – Adds creaminess; use part-skim for a leaner option.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons) – Enhances richness, though can be omitted for a lighter version. -
For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Offers a burst of freshness as a garnish.
• Crispy Fried Onions or Bread Crumbs (¼ cup / approx. 1 oz) – Optional topping that adds texture and crunch.
This Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese is a family-friendly comfort food that you can feel good about serving!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese
Step 1: Sauté Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 14 ounces of diced chicken and season with ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes until it turns lightly golden and is cooked through.
Step 2: Incorporate BBQ Sauce and Honey
Stir in 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce along with 2 tablespoons of honey into the skillet. Let the mixture bubble gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse the chicken with a deliciously sticky coating while the aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Liquids
Add 12 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni, 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 cup of whole milk to the skillet. Carefully stir to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. This combination will create the creamy base for your Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a satisfying creamy texture.
Step 5: Add Butter and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, followed by 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and envelops every piece of pasta, making it irresistibly rich.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the Mac & Cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the skillet from heat, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional crispy fried onions or bread crumbs for added crunch. Serve this comforting Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese hot, and watch your family dive into this delightful dish!
Expert Tips for Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese
- Use Leftovers: Opt for leftover cooked chicken to cut down on prep time and keep the flavors intact.
- Taste As You Go: Remember to taste during cooking to adjust seasonings. It’s crucial for achieving that perfect balance in your Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese.
- Choose Your BBQ Sauce Wisely: Select a low-calorie BBQ sauce if you’re watching your intake, but make sure it’s flavorful enough to shine through.
- Watch the Cheese: While cheese adds creaminess, using low-fat varieties can maintain flavor without adding excess calories.
- Stir for Creaminess: Stirring in the cheese off the heat ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping, providing that dreamy texture we love.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition without significantly changing the calorie content.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the diced chicken and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. Additionally, combine the dry pasta, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and milk in a separate container, which can also be refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken mixture, add the pasta combination, and continue with the simmering and cheese addition steps. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time on busy nights but ensures your dish remains just as delicious and comforting. Enjoy delicious home-cooked comfort food with minimal effort!
Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese Variations
Feel free to personalize this delicious recipe with your own twists and swaps to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives and use almond milk for creaminess.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an exciting heat that complements the dish perfectly.
- Extra Veggies: Add in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for a burst of color and nutrition, transforming your mac into a wholesome delight.
- Whole Grain Pasta: Substitute the elbow macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta to increase fiber content without sacrificing flavor.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a burst of freshness and flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika, or try adding a splash of liquid smoke for an irresistible barbecue essence.
- Protein-Packed Option: Toss in some black beans or chickpeas for a hearty protein boost that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
- Sweet and Savory: Experiment with adding diced apples or pears to the mix for a surprising hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements.
If you’re looking for more ways to explore healthy comfort food, consider trying out the Low Calorie Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls Packed With Flavor or indulge in the delightful Cheese Chicken Low for a fun twist with your next family meal!
How to Store and Freeze Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating straight from the fridge or freezer, slowly heat over medium-low on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth or milk to retain moisture and creaminess in your Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese.
Portioning: Consider dividing into single-serving portions before freezing, making it easy to grab and reheat just what you need for a quick meal!
What to Serve with One-Pot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
When you’re ready to elevate your cozy meal, consider these delightful pairings to round out your dining experience.
- Garlic Bread: The perfect side, offering a crispy, buttery contrast that balances the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing crunch to complement the rich flavors of your dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: This bright and tender green adds a pop of color and nutrients, enhancing both the flavor and health of your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly, these muffins soak up any stray sauces while adding a delightful southern twist.
For a truly joyful meal, try pairing this hearty mac and cheese with a crisp, light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to cut through the richness. For dessert, a simple fruit salad can cleanse the palate, making room for your next delicious bite!
Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, aim for boneless, skinless breasts for a leaner option. Fresh chicken should be pink, with no dark spots or an unpleasant odor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken to cut prep time and infuse additional flavor into your Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain that creamy texture we love.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! You can freeze your Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When reheating, add a little chicken broth or milk to keep it nice and creamy.
What should I do if my mac and cheese turns out too dry?
Very common, but no worries! If your mac and cheese appears dry, simply stir in a bit of additional milk or broth and heat it over low heat while stirring. This will help restore its creamy consistency. Make sure to taste as you go to get the perfect balance!
Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?
Great question! This recipe can easily be adapted for dietary restrictions. Use gluten-free macaroni for those with gluten sensitivities, and opt for low-fat or dairy-free cheese options if lactose intolerant. Always check your BBQ sauce for any allergens, especially if serving kids or others with specific dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of my mac and cheese?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding fun ingredients like sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or additional spices like chipotle powder for a smoky kick. Experimenting makes cooking more fun and allows you to cater to your family’s taste preferences.
Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese for Guilt-Free Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 ounces of diced chicken and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 4-5 minutes until it turns lightly golden and cooked through.
- Stir in 1 cup of BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons of honey into the skillet. Let the mixture bubble gently for about 2 minutes.
- Add 12 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of whole milk to the skillet. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, followed by 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and optional crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs. Serve hot.
