A deliciously hearty and protein-packed mac and cheese with honey BBQ chicken, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Protein
1lbboneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1tbspolive oil
1tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
1tspsmoked paprika
to tasteSalt and black pepper
2tbsphoney
¼cupBBQ sauce (sugar-free or regular)
2cupselbow pasta (about 8 oz dry)
1cupfat-free evaporated milk
4ozreduced-fat cream cheese
1tspchicken stock powder
1½cupsshredded light cheddar cheese
Instructions
Toss diced chicken with olive oil and seasonings. Cook in a skillet 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Stir in honey and BBQ sauce, then set aside.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In the same pan, lower heat and add evaporated milk and cream cheese. Stir until smooth, then add chicken stock powder and melted cheddar, stirring until cheese melts.
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, then fold in the honey BBQ chicken until fully incorporated.
Notes
For extra flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.