A comforting and creamy mac and cheese dish featuring succulent chicken coated in a honey garlic butter sauce.
Author:jasmine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop and Broiling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Poultry
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
Drizzle the honey into the skillet, allowing it to bubble for about a minute while coating the chicken.
Pour in the milk and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Add shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, scrambling to coat it in the sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash more milk.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding red pepper flakes if desired.
For a crispy finish, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with leftover cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and cheese.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.