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Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese

Guilt-Free Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese Delight

Enjoy a delicious Low Calorie High Protein Mac & Cheese that satisfies cravings without the guilt.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Diced
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Uncooked
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing chicken
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Or regular paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Black Pepper To taste
  • ½ cup BBQ Sauce Low-calorie version
  • 2 tablespoons Honey
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
For the Cheeses
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Consider low-fat
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
For the Finish
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • Parsley Optional garnish
  • Crispy Fried Onions or Bread Crumbs For topping

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts along with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add ½ cup of BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons of honey to the sautéed chicken, stirring well to coat each piece. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni, 3 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of whole milk. Bring the pot to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until all the cheese has melted.
  6. Taste the macaroni and cheese, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Transfer the creamy mac and cheese to a serving dish, and top with freshly chopped parsley and crispy fried onions or bread crumbs. Serve right away.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, follow tips to avoid overcooking chicken and ensure smooth consistency when reheating leftovers.

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