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bbq chicken high protein mac and cheese overhead

Chicken BBQ Mac and Cheese

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A high-protein twist on a comfort classic using Kaizen lupin-bean pasta, seared chicken breast, and smoky sugar-free BBQ sauce. A complete muscle-building meal in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein & Base
  • 200 g chicken breast cubed into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1 box Kaizen Protein Mac and Cheese includes cheese sauce packet
Seasoning & Toppings
  • 1 tsp Trader Joes onion chili spice
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tbsp sugar free bbq sauce
  • 1 stalk green onions sliced

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Season the 200g of cubed chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Trader Joe’s onion chili spice.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken cubes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Kaizen protein mac and cheese according to the instructions on the box, boiling the pasta until al dente.
  4. Drain the pasta and mix in the cheese sauce components as directed by the box.
  5. Fold the cooked chicken into the mac and cheese to warm through.
  6. Top with a drizzle of sugar-free BBQ sauce and sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 65gFat: 12gFiber: 15gSugar: 2g

Notes

Chicken BBQ Mac and Cheese Tips & Expert Strategy

TEXTURE/MOUTHFEEL DISCLAIMER: This dish is dense, hearty, and creamy. The Kaizen pasta has a more significant 'bite' than wheat pasta, which provides a satisfying chew that pairs well with the tender seared chicken.
INGREDIENT SUBSTITUTION WARNING: Do not overcook the lupin pasta. Unlike traditional pasta, bean-based noodles can go from al dente to mushy in a matter of 60 seconds. Set a timer and taste-test early.
THE BETTER LATER RULE: While this is great fresh, the flavors of the onion chili spice actually penetrate the chicken more deeply after sitting. If meal prepping, store the BBQ sauce separately and add after reheating to prevent it from soaking into the pasta.
PROFESSIONAL FINISHING TOUCH: Always garnish with fresh green onions at the very end. The sharp, cool bite of the raw onion cuts through the richness of the cheese and the smokiness of the BBQ sauce for a balanced flavor profile.

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