MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep! ONLY 511 CALS

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep! ONLY 511 CALS is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 500 calories per serving. Recipe by Jalalsamfit on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 23 min | Total: 48 min

Cost: $9.87 total, $2.47 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Chicken Breast (cut into 1‑inch cubes)
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder (or 2 cloves minced)
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (ground)
  • 0.5 tsp Paprika (sweet paprika)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt (to taste)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 tbsp Honey (raw honey preferred)
  • 0.25 cup Barbecue Sauce (low‑sugar if desired)
  • 1 cup Low Fat Milk (2% milk)
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot)
  • 4 oz Light Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup Lowfat Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni (whole‑wheat optional)

Instructions

  1. Cube and Season Chicken

    Slice the chicken breast into 1‑inch cubes. In a bowl combine the chicken, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, salt and olive oil; toss until evenly coated and the color darkens slightly.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Cook Chicken

    Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: medium heat

  3. Add Honey‑Barbecue Glaze

    Turn off the heat and immediately drizzle the honey and barbecue sauce over the chicken. Stir quickly so the glaze coats every piece.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Set Chicken Aside

    Transfer the glazed chicken to a plate and set aside while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Cook Macaroni

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions (8‑10 minutes) until al dente.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: boiling

  6. Drain Pasta

    Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander and return it to the pot or a large bowl.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Prepare Cheese Sauce

    In the skillet used for the chicken (or a clean saucepan), combine low‑fat milk, hot sauce, softened light cream cheese and shredded low‑fat cheddar. Heat over low‑medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: low‑medium heat

  8. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Then fold in the honey‑barbecue chicken pieces, mixing gently until everything is well combined.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Portion and Serve

    Divide the mac and cheese into four equal portions and serve immediately, or let cool before storing for meal prep.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
500
Protein
35g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
15g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: High Protein, Low Fat, Contains Dairy, Contains Gluten

Allergens: Milk, Cheese, Gluten

Last updated: April 14, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep! ONLY 511 CALS

Recipe by Jalalsamfit

A protein‑packed twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring tender chicken cubes glazed in honey‑barbecue sauce and a creamy low‑fat cheese sauce. At roughly 500 calories per serving, this dish is perfect for meal‑prepping and fits a high‑protein, lower‑fat diet.

MediumAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
15m
Prep
19m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
44m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$9.87
Total cost
$2.47
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cooking the chicken until golden brown without overcooking
  • Achieving a smooth, lump‑free cheese sauce

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet and boiling water carefully to avoid burns.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese in American comfort food cuisine?

A

Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort dish, and adding honey‑barbecue chicken reflects the Southern love for sweet‑savory BBQ flavors while boosting protein for modern health‑focused meals. This fusion showcases how traditional comfort foods evolve to meet contemporary nutritional trends.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of mac and cheese in the United States and how does this recipe differ?

A

In the U.S., Southern mac and cheese often includes sharp cheddar and a breadcrumb topping, while New England versions may use a béchamel base. This recipe replaces heavy cream with low‑fat dairy and adds honey‑barbecue chicken, creating a lighter, high‑protein twist on the classic.

cultural
Q

How is High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese traditionally served in Southern American households?

A

It is typically served hot as a main dish, often accompanied by a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. In Southern gatherings, it may be presented in a casserole dish and baked briefly, though this recipe keeps it stovetop for speed.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Mac and cheese is a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual celebrations like backyard barbecues. Adding honey‑barbecue chicken makes it a hearty option for sports‑day parties or meal‑prep for the workweek.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A

It pairs nicely with crisp coleslaw, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh cucumber‑tomato salad. For a full Southern spread, serve alongside baked beans or cornbread.

cultural
Q

What makes High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese special or unique in American comfort food cuisine?

A

The dish combines the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese with a lean protein source and a sweet‑smoky honey‑BBQ glaze, delivering a balanced meal that stays under 500 calories per serving while still feeling indulgent.

cultural
Q

How has mac and cheese evolved over time in American cuisine to include high‑protein variations like this one?

A

Originally a simple cheese‑pasta dish, mac and cheese has expanded to include baked casseroles, gourmet cheeses, and protein‑boosting add‑ins such as chicken, turkey, or legumes. Health‑conscious cooks now favor low‑fat dairy and lean meats, leading to recipes like this high‑protein version.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making High Protein Honey Barbecue Chicken Mac and Cheese?

A

Common errors include overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry, and cooking the cheese sauce on too high a heat, resulting in a grainy texture. Also, failing to reserve pasta water can make the sauce too thick.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use low‑fat milk, light cream cheese, and lowfat cheddar instead of full‑fat dairy?

A

Using lower‑fat dairy reduces the overall calorie count while still providing a creamy texture, allowing the dish to stay around 500 calories per serving and fit a high‑protein, lower‑fat diet.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Jalalsamfit specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Jalalsamfit focuses on high‑protein, low‑calorie meals that are easy to prepare for meal‑prepping, often featuring creative twists on classic comfort foods and quick, budget‑friendly cooking techniques.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Jalalsamfit's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Jalalsamfit emphasizes nutritional balance—especially protein content—while keeping recipes simple and fast, unlike many channels that prioritize indulgence over health. The channel also frequently demonstrates batch‑cooking and storage tips for busy lifestyles.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

How I Make Way Better Alfredo
7

How I Make Way Better Alfredo

A rich, creamy Alfredo tossed with fresh egg fettuccine and topped with Cajun‑spiced blackened chicken. This Italian‑American comfort dish combines a silky Parmesan‑cream sauce with a hint of Southern heat for a restaurant‑quality dinner at home.

46 minServes 2$17
Italian-American
TASTIEST High Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep ONLY 500 Calories
4

TASTIEST High Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep ONLY 500 Calories

A creamy, high‑protein chicken alfredo that stays under 500 calories per serving. Seasoned chicken breast, a light cream‑cheese alfredo sauce, and whole‑wheat pasta make this perfect for meal‑prepping or a quick weeknight dinner.

43 minServes 4$7
Italian
Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs! [Easy Summer Recipe]
6

Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs! [Easy Summer Recipe]

Crispy, saucy barbecue chicken thighs made in the air fryer for a quick summer‑style dinner without a grill. Bone‑in, skin‑on thighs are seasoned, lightly marinated, and air‑fried to perfection, then brushed with your favorite BBQ sauce for a caramelized finish.

1 hr 25 minServes 4$7
American
61g Protein Meal Prep For The Week
3

61g Protein Meal Prep For The Week

A high‑protein, meal‑prep friendly dish that combines Mexican‑style chicken fajitas with creamy mac and cheese. Each serving packs over 60 g of protein and stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

1 hr 5 minServes 5$33
American (Tex‑Mex Fusion)
TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories
7

TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories

A creamy, flavorful, high‑protein twist on classic mac and cheese that packs the bold taste of chicken fajitas. Each serving is about 590 calories, perfect for meal‑prepping a week of tasty, protein‑rich comfort food.

55 minServes 4$17
Tex-Mex
Beginner's Meal Prep Guide (All Calories & Macros) Easy Healthy Bodybuilding Recipes!
48

Beginner's Meal Prep Guide (All Calories & Macros) Easy Healthy Bodybuilding Recipes!

A complete 7‑day high‑protein meal‑prep plan from the Buff Dudes channel. Includes overnight oats for breakfast, slow‑cooker chicken with rice and broccoli for lunch, ground‑beef dinner with green beans, and easy snack ideas. All portions are weighed for precise macros and calories.

6 hrs 35 minServes 7$108
American
MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, ONLY 525 calories in One Pan! 🔥👨🏽‍🍳🥘
10

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, ONLY 525 calories in One Pan! 🔥👨🏽‍🍳🥘

A quick, high‑protein Cajun‑spiced chicken pasta that delivers creamy richness with only about 525 calories and 58 g of protein per serving. Perfect for meal‑prep, this one‑pan dish combines seasoned chicken, onions, garlic, tomatoes, pasta, and light cream cheese for a satisfying dinner in under 45 minutes.

45 minServes 4$8
American (Cajun)
I make high protein meals!
3

I make high protein meals!

A high‑protein, low‑fat meal‑prep recipe that uses a slow cooker to tenderize two pounds of chicken, then combines it with protein pasta, broccoli, rotini, creamy soups and fat‑free cheddar for eight ready‑to‑go containers. Perfect for busy fitness enthusiasts looking for a "gains" dinner that only requires a few hands‑off steps.

3 hrs 50 minServes 8$19
American