Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens—no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

There’s something absolutely comforting about a creamy bowl of mac and cheese. The combination of pasta, rich cheese, and hearty protein transforms an ordinary meal into something special. One of my fondest memories is preparing a cheesy dish for my family, filled with laughter, warmth, and flavor. This Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese brings nostalgia and excitement to the table.

You might think that achieving restaurant-quality mac and cheese is challenging, but I assure you, it’s quite simple. Just imagine succulent chicken, tossed in a honey garlic butter sauce, combining seamlessly with creamy cheeses and tender macaroni. That’s a meal worth sharing!

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely tantalize your taste buds and make you the star of your kitchen.

Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Fundamentals

Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese brings together key elements of flavor and texture. The chicken adds lean protein packed with flavor, while the honey and garlic elevate the dish into an irresistible delight. Strong and creamy cheeses create a decadent sauce that envelops every piece of macaroni.

Cooking this dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Preparation/setup

Before starting the cooking process, gather all your ingredients. Make sure to have your chicken diced, garlic minced, and pasta ready to go. Having everything measured and laid out saves time, letting you enjoy the cooking experience without stress.

Once that’s set, grab a large pot and skillet. You’ll need the pot for boiling the macaroni and the skillet for everything else—where all the delicious magic happens!

Ingredients

For this Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Drizzle the honey into the skillet, allowing it to bubble for about a minute while coating the chicken.
5. Pour in the milk and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
6. Add shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
7. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, scrambling to coat it in the sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash more milk.
8. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
9. For a crispy finish, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with leftover cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and cheese.

Tips for Cooking Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Technique

Creating the perfect Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just about the right ingredients—it’s also about the cooking technique. Start by ensuring your chicken is cooked evenly, which takes practice. By cutting the chicken into equal-sized pieces, you promote even cooking.

Stir in the cheese gradually. Melting cheese requires patience, so let each handful melt before adding more. This technique creates a creamy sauce free of lumps.

Tips/tricks

For extra flavor, consider adding different herbs and spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the taste. If you want a hint of acidity, add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.

Don’t forget the importance of seasoning. Taste your sauce before combining it with the macaroni; adjust accordingly. A pinch of salt can drastically enhance flavor.

Perfecting Results

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect consistency in your mac and cheese requires attention. If your sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken up.

Consistency and flavor go hand in hand. The creamy richness must coat every piece of elbow macaroni perfectly.

Troubleshooting/variations

Feel free to experiment with variations. If you prefer a smokier taste, add some cooked bacon or smoked Gouda cheese. For a veggie twist, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

If you run into a problem with clumpy cheese, that can happen if it overheats. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s melted to avoid that.

Serving and Storing Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving/presentation

Presentation elevates the dining experience. Serve your Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual bowls or a large dish for family-style service. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and brightness.

Consider a side salad for a balanced meal or fresh bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Pairings/storage

Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a garden salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess if needed.

Always keep mac and cheese separate from ingredients that might contribute excess moisture to ensure the best storage experience.

Conclusion

The Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Mac and Cheese offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, making it a go-to recipe for families and casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, this dish becomes an engaging way to bring excitement to your cooking routine. Enjoy creating this satisfying meal and sharing it with loved ones—because food always tastes better when shared.

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