Honey Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe with Perfect Creamy Mac and Cheese

Picture this: tender, juicy chicken glazed with a sticky, sweet honey garlic butter sauce that glistens in the light, served alongside a warm, gooey bowl of creamy mac and cheese that practically melts in your mouth. The first time I made this dish, it felt like a revelation. I was standing in the kitchen on a chilly evening, craving something cozy yet indulgent, and this recipe delivered everything I wanted and more. The combination of savory and sweet flavors paired with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the mac and cheese was pure magic. Each bite felt like a little celebration, and honestly, I knew right then this recipe was a keeper.

My family couldn’t get enough of it. They kept sneaking pieces of chicken off the pan as it cooled, and I was practically guarding the mac and cheese like a hawk! Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or just want to whip up a comforting meal for a cozy night in, this honey garlic butter chicken with creamy mac and cheese is the answer. Trust me—this is one dish you’re going to want to make again and again. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Weeknight Dinner: Ready in under an hour, this dish is a lifesaver for busy evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can be found in your pantry or fridge—no special grocery runs required!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves this dish, from kids to adults. The combination of sweet and savory chicken with comforting mac and cheese is irresistible.
• Full of Flavor: The honey garlic butter sauce is perfectly balanced—sweet, tangy, and garlicky, with a touch of richness from the butter.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. More on that later!

This recipe stands out because it’s the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. The chicken is juicy and caramelized, the sauce is addictive, and the mac and cheese is creamy with just the right amount of cheesiness. Plus, it’s a meal that feels like it’s straight out of a fancy restaurant but is incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a no-fuss dinner that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds, this is it.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a dish that tastes anything but ordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken:

• Chicken thighs: Skinless and boneless, about 1.5 pounds.
• Honey: For that perfect sweetness (use pure honey for best results).
• Garlic: Minced, fresh garlic for a bold flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted, for a rich and silky sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami kick to balance the sweetness.
• Lemon juice: A splash to brighten up the flavors.
• Salt: To taste.
• Pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle heat.

For the Creamy Mac and Cheese:

• Elbow macaroni: 2 cups, cooked according to package instructions.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
• All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons, for the roux.
• Milk: 2 cups, whole milk or your choice of dairy-free alternative.
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded (feel free to mix in some mozzarella or parmesan for extra flavor).
• Salt: To taste.
• Pepper: Freshly ground.

If you’re out of soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option. Swap out the cheddar for gouda or Swiss if you want a different cheesy flavor. And if you prefer chicken breasts, just adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this recipe, but here are the essentials:

• Heavy-bottomed skillet: For searing the chicken and making the honey garlic butter sauce.
• Medium saucepan: To whip up the creamy mac and cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Perfect for creating a smooth roux and creamy cheese sauce.
• Spatula: To stir and coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
• Colander: For draining the cooked macaroni.

If you don’t have a heavy-bottomed skillet, a regular frying pan will work. Just be sure to keep an eye on the heat to prevent the honey from scorching. And remember to use a whisk—it’ll save you from ending up with clumpy cheese sauce!

Preparation Method

For the Honey Garlic Butter Chicken:

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the flavors are well absorbed.

For the Creamy Mac and Cheese:

1. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until completely melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, stirring until evenly coated.

Congratulations! You’re now ready to plate up your delicious honey garlic butter chicken with creamy mac and cheese.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Searing the chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a beautiful golden crust.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry, so keep an eye on it while searing and cooking in the sauce.
• Prevent lumpy cheese sauce: Whisk continuously when making the roux and adding milk—this is the key to a smooth sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and add more soy sauce or honey if needed to match your preferred balance of sweetness and saltiness.
• Multitasking: Start cooking the macaroni while the chicken is searing to save time and ensure both components are ready at the same time.

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-carb option: Swap the macaroni for cauliflower florets to make a keto-friendly version of this dish.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic butter sauce for some heat.
• Vegan version: Use tofu or seitan instead of chicken, vegan butter, and plant-based cheese and milk for the mac and cheese.
• Seasonal swap: Replace the honey in the sauce with maple syrup for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Extra veggies: Stir in some steamed broccoli or spinach into the mac and cheese for added nutrition.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the honey garlic butter chicken warm, straight out of the skillet, with the creamy mac and cheese on the side. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent companions for a balanced meal.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and mac and cheese in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. For the mac and cheese, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring in a little milk to bring back its creamy texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats. The chicken provides lean protein, while the honey offers natural sweetness and energy. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, and the cheese in the mac and cheese supplies calcium and protein. If you choose to add vegetables, you’ll get extra vitamins and fiber too.

For those watching their diet, you can easily adapt this recipe to be low-carb or dairy-free by using alternatives like cauliflower and plant-based cheese. Just keep in mind that the nutritional values will vary depending on the substitutions you make.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and comforting—this honey garlic butter chicken with creamy mac and cheese is it. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a cozy dinner at home.

Try it out and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Switch up the flavors, add your favorite veggies, or go bold with some extra spices. This recipe is versatile, forgiving, and truly satisfying.

I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried any fun variations or have your own tips to share. And if you love it as much as my family does, don’t forget to share it with your friends! Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken breasts can cook faster than thighs.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and mac and cheese separately, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat the mac and cheese?

Warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the flour in the mac and cheese with a gluten-free alternative and use tamari instead of soy sauce for the chicken.

What can I use instead of honey in the sauce?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives to honey for a slightly different flavor profile.

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