Description
A high-protein, creamy mac and cheese with honey-baked chicken, using cottage cheese and cheddar for a rich, low-calorie sauce. Serves 4 with 58g total protein.
Ingredients
400 g chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch cubes)
150 g fat-free cottage cheese
150 g 30% reduced-fat cheddar (grated)
300 g dry pasta (macaroni, fusilli, or penne)
200 g light cream cheese
2 tbsp honey BBQ sauce (70 g, reduced-sugar preferred)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Low-calorie cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 180°C (350°F) or medium non-stick pan.
Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Lightly mist chicken with cooking spray.
Air-fry chicken for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Transfer chicken to bowl and toss with honey BBQ sauce.
Blind grater fat-free cottage cheese and reduced-fat cheddar in blender until smooth.
In saucepan, melt light cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of nondairy milk (heat gradually to avoid lumps).
Toss cooked pasta with cheese sauce, blending well.
Fold in glazed chicken and serve immediately.
Notes
Use any white meat cubed (turkey/vegan alternative OK)
For stovetop cooking: sauté chicken with reduced oil
Store leftovers in airtight containers (up to 3 days)
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop + Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American Fusion