BBQ Chicken with High-Protein Mac and Cheese

This BBQ Chicken with High-Protein Mac and Cheese combines smoky, tender chicken with a creamy, protein-packed pasta dish. The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that beautifully complements the rich, cheesy mac and cheese, creating a satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
4. While the chicken is grilling, cook the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add flour and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
6. Slowly whisk in the low-fat milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the grilled BBQ chicken over a bed of high-protein mac and cheese, garnished with fresh parsley.