High Protein Honey Bbq Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep
High Protein Honey Bbq Chicken Mac & Cheese Meal Prep combines tender shredded chicken, macaroni, low-fat cheese, and a sweet smoky BBQ sauce in one creamy pasta dish. It is designed for make-ahead lunches and dinners with about 51 grams of protein per serving based on estimated nutrition.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Meal prep containers
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 pound chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 1 cup low-fat cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup milk
- salt and pepper to taste
- green onions sliced, optional
- extra cheese optional topping
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a splash of pasta water in case the sauce needs loosening.
- Add milk, BBQ sauce, honey, salt, and pepper to a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Stir in the low-fat cheese gradually until melted into a smooth sauce.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and warm it through in the honey BBQ cheese sauce.
- Add the cooked macaroni and stir until fully coated, adding pasta water if needed.
- Divide into four meal prep containers and add green onions or extra cheese if desired.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Reheating: Add a splash of milk before microwaving and stir halfway through so the sauce turns creamy again.
Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Best Tips: Keep the heat on medium-low when melting the cheese so the sauce stays smooth instead of grainy.
Meal Prep: Portion while the pasta is still warm, then let containers cool slightly before sealing.
Variations: Add steamed broccoli, corn, peas, hot sauce, pepper jack, or protein pasta to change the texture and flavor.