Ingredients

Golden Honey-Garlic Chicken

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Creamy Protein Macaroni

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups 2% milk
4 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of nutmeg

Fresh Finishes

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Pat dry the chicken thighs and season with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using to prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, then pour in the honey-garlic sauce. Simmer while stirring for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Meanwhile, cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well without rinsing and set aside.

Step 5: In the same or a clean pot, melt cream cheese over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg until the sauce is creamy and cheese is melted.

Step 6: Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat completely. Serve portions of macaroni alongside the honey garlic butter chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

Let the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to soak up more flavor.

Prepare the honey-garlic sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge to save cooking time.

For thicker mac & cheese, add an extra ounce or two of shredded cheddar cheese.

Use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted but may cook faster and be less juicy than thighs. Watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying out the meat.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the mac & cheese may change after thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.