High Protein Crispy Nashville Hot Chicken Mac n Cheese

A high-protein, flavorful dish combining crispy Nashville-style hot chicken with creamy mac n cheese.

Ingredients

• 1000g Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, cubed
• 1.5 Tsp Black Pepper
• 2.5 Tsp Smoked Paprika
• 2 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 2 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1.5 Tsp Chilli Powder
• 2 Tbsp Baking Powder
• 2 Tbsp Dark Brown Sugar
• 2 Tsp Olive Oil
• 30g Reduced Fat Butter (for cooking)
• Dry Spice Rub - Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder (once cooked)
• 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
• 270g Uncooked Macaroni Pasta
• 350g 1% Milk
• 200g 50% Fat Cream Cheese
• 100g Low Fat Sharp Cheddar
• 1.5 Tbsp Mustard
• 1 Tsp Each: Smoked Paprika, Garlic & Onion Powder
• 1/2 Tsp each: Black Pepper, Chilli Powder
• 1.5 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Slice your chicken thighs into cubes, season with black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and chili powder, baking powder, brown sugar, and olive oil. Mix till the color changes.
2. Cook the chicken in light butter on medium heat for 4-5 minutes each side until golden brown and crispy.
3. Lower the heat, add more butter, the dry spice mix, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly till well coated and spices are rubbed in, then set aside.
4. In a pan on medium-low heat, add milk, cream cheese, cheddar, mustard, spices, and parsley.
5. Use a spatula to continuously stir till all is melted and smooth.
6. Let the sauce thicken slightly, then add cooked macaroni. Mix till well coated and creamy.

Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prep and provides a high-protein meal option.

Recipe Source: “https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKWqO2JBK69/?igsh=bXp4dXRidDhsbjZ5"