Description

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a flavorful and hearty meal combining tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce with creamy, protein-packed macaroni and cheese. Perfect for an indulgent dinner that’s both comforting and nutritious, this recipe balances rich flavors and protein to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Prepare and season chicken: Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and season them evenly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 4 cloves minced garlic, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if using. This sauce base will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a plate to rest.
Make the honey-garlic sauce: Reduce skillet heat to medium and add 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Once melted, pour in the prepared honey-garlic sauce mixture. Stir constantly and bring to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to evenly coat each piece with the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the macaroni: While the chicken simmers, boil 12 oz elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well without rinsing, to keep starch for the creamy sauce.
Prepare the creamy cheese sauce: In the same pot or a clean pot over medium-low heat, melt 4 oz cream cheese. Gradually whisk in 2 cups 2% milk until the sauce is smooth. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue stirring until melted and creamy.
Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly until all pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture.
Serve and garnish: Plate generous portions of the creamy protein mac & cheese alongside the honey garlic butter chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken rest in the honey-garlic sauce for a few minutes before serving to absorb more taste.
You can prepare the honey-garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save cooking time.
If you prefer a thicker macaroni and cheese, add an additional ounce or two of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain texture and flavor.
Allergy Information: Check individual ingredients for allergens, especially dairy and soy. Consult a health professional if uncertain.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, high protein chicken, mac and cheese, creamy macaroni, healthy comfort food, stovetop recipe