Healthy Lunch Ideas with Chicken Mac and Cheese
A protein-rich twist on a comfort classic — tender BBQ chicken tossed with high-protein pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a sweet smoky finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 8 oz high-protein pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup milk (or high-protein milk)
- 1/2 cup blended Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/2 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package. Reserve 1/2 cup water.
- Season and cook chicken. Dice and toss in BBQ sauce.
- In saucepan, heat olive oil, garlic, onion, and paprika.
- Add milk and yogurt/cottage cheese. Stir until warmed.
- Add cheeses and stir until smooth. Thin with pasta water if needed.
- Combine pasta, cheese sauce, and chicken. Stir gently over low heat.
- Serve warm. Garnish with extra cheese, parsley, or BBQ drizzle.
Notes
- Add broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for variation.
- Use unflavored protein powder in sauce to boost protein even further.