Get ready to indulge in a meal full of rich flavors and comfort! In this post, I’ll guide you through making Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac and Cheese. You’ll enjoy juicy chicken glazed in a sweet-savory sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy pasta. This dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the ingredients and turn your kitchen into a hub of deliciousness!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Combination: The balance of honey and garlic creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that both kids and adults will love.
- Comfort Food Twist: Pairing the chicken with creamy mac and cheese adds a comforting twist to a classic dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be made in about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level with cayenne pepper or add your favorite veggies to the mac and cheese for a personal touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Honey Garlic Butter Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for chicken)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Honey garlic butter chicken brings together sweet and savory flavors. You will love how the honey and soy sauce create a glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. I use fresh garlic to add depth. It’s so important for flavor!
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese
- 1 box (8 oz) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for mac and cheese)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Mac and cheese is a comfort food classic. Sharp cheddar gives it that rich flavor we crave. You can add cayenne for a kick, but it’s optional. I often garnish with fresh parsley to make it look nice.
Helpful Notes on Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of honey, use maple syrup for sweetness. For soy sauce, try tamari or coconut aminos. They work well too.
If you want a lighter dish, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They stay juicy and tender. For the mac and cheese, any small pasta can work, like shells or cavatappi.
Always check your pantry! You can mix and match flavors based on what you have. Cooking should be fun and flexible!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
To start, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This makes a sweet and savory marinade. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. You can let it marinate up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Cooking the Pasta
Next, boil a pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions. You want it to be al dente, which means firm but cooked. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the creamy base for your dish.
Searing the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it’s hot and bubbling, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and fully cooked. Check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
Preparing the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the leftover marinade. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will thicken the sauce. After it thickens, return the chicken to the skillet. Turn the chicken pieces to coat them well in the honey garlic sauce. This adds so much flavor!
Making the Mac and Cheese
In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 2 minutes. This mix should look bubbly and light golden. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and turns creamy.
Final Assembly and Serving
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until it melts smoothly. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. To serve, slice the honey garlic chicken and place it next to a generous scoop of mac and cheese. Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken and add some chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Marinating Chicken
To get the best flavor, marinate your chicken well. Here’s how:
- Use a bowl: Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken: Put the chicken in the bowl and cover it with the marinade.
- Chill it: Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
This step makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
Achieving the Perfect Mac and Cheese Consistency
Getting mac and cheese creamy is easy with a few tips:
- Cook pasta al dente: Follow the package instructions carefully so the pasta isn’t mushy.
- Make a roux: Heat butter and whisk in flour until bubbly. This gives a nice base.
- Slowly add milk: Pour in milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Melt cheese well: Stir cheese in off the heat to keep it smooth.
If you want it thicker, add more cheese or cook it a bit longer.
How to Ensure Chicken is Cooked Safely
Safety is key when cooking chicken. Here’s what to do:
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy.
- Cut it open: If unsure, slice the thickest part of the chicken. It should be white, not pink.
Following these steps helps you serve safe and delicious chicken.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours will enhance the flavors significantly, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Perfect Pasta: To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker honey garlic sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency before adding the chicken back in.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese for the mac and cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist!
Variations
Additions for Extra Flavor and Texture
You can boost flavor and texture in this dish easily. Consider adding some cooked veggies. Broccoli or peas work well. You can also mix in crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking adds a nice texture too. Don't forget about herbs! Fresh basil or chives can give a bright taste.
Substituting Proteins or Dairy Options
If you want to switch proteins, try using shrimp or tofu. Both will soak up the honey garlic sauce well. For a lighter option, chicken thighs can also add more flavor. If you need dairy-free choices, use almond milk for mac and cheese. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese and add a cheesy flavor.
Creative Twists on Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese can be so much fun to change up! You might add different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Try adding roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes for extra zing. For a fun twist, mix in some buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce. A little creativity makes every bite exciting!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Chicken and Mac and Cheese
To store leftover chicken and mac and cheese, let them cool first. Place them in airtight containers. You can keep the chicken and mac and cheese in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate them if you want to keep the chicken crispy.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
When reheating, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and mac and cheese in a baking dish. Add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to keep it creamy. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave but may lose some texture.
Freezing Guidelines and Tips
You can freeze both the chicken and mac and cheese. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to label them with the date. The chicken can last for up to three months. The mac and cheese will be good for about two months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps them tasty and safe to eat.
FAQs
Can I make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Honey Garlic Butter Chicken ahead of time. Marinate the chicken in the honey, soy sauce, and garlic mix. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors soak into the chicken well. When ready, simply cook it as per the recipe.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you don’t have elbow macaroni, you can use other pasta shapes. Fusilli, penne, or shells work well too. Just ensure they cook to al dente. They will hold the cheese sauce nicely. The shape change will not affect the taste of the dish.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and mac and cheese in advance. Store them in airtight containers. The flavors will blend and taste even better after sitting. Just reheat your portions when you're ready to eat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, you can sprinkle cayenne pepper into the mac and cheese. You may also use hot sauce when cooking the chicken. For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. These options will give your dish the spicy punch you crave!
You learned how to make Honey Garlic Butter Chicken and Mac and Cheese. This dish combines sweet and savory flavors. I shared tips on ingredient swaps and shared unique twists. Remember to store leftovers the right way. With these skills, you can create a tasty meal anytime. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and make it your own! My final thought? Great food brings joy, so savor every bite!
