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High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

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A comforting and indulgent dish featuring tender shredded chicken glazed in sugar-free BBQ and honey, combined with a lighter cheese sauce and high-protein pasta.

Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • ½ cup sugar-free BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or high-protein pasta)
  • 1 can (12 oz) fat-free evaporated milk
  • ¾ cup shredded light cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz light cream cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a large saucepan over low heat, pour in the evaporated milk. Add the shredded cheddar and light cream cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. Add the chicken: Place the cooked shredded chicken in a medium bowl. Pour the sugar-free BBQ sauce and honey over the chicken. Toss until every shred is coated with the glaze.
  4. Combine: Fold the glazed chicken into the cheese sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir until every piece is evenly coated and the mixture is heated through.
  5. Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top if using. Serve warm, or portion into containers for meal prep.

Notes

Swap the elbow macaroni for a high-protein lentil or chickpea pasta to further increase protein. Use low-sodium BBQ sauce if you’re watching salt. If you prefer no honey, a splash of apple cider vinegar adds brightness.

Find it online: https://www.wholesomeeasy.com/tastes-like-cheat-meal/