Dinner

High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese Recipe

ByElla Hart June 22, 2026June 22, 2026

Introduction

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese combines tender, flavorful chicken with a creamy, cheesy pasta side. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive enough for guests.

The image shows a clear rectangular glass dish filled with two main parts: on the left, creamy macaroni and cheese made with small curly macaroni, coated in rich yellow-orange cheese sauce, sprinkled lightly with green herbs; on the right, several pieces of golden brown, crispy fried chicken patties with a shiny, slightly oily surface, also garnished with green herbs. The dish rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 the chicken thighs dry and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes to make the honey-garlic sauce.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then pour in the honey-garlic sauce. Simmer, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat well in the sauce.
Step 4: Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well without rinsing, and set aside.
Step 5: In the same or a clean pot, melt the cream cheese over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg, stirring until creamy and melted.
Step 6: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Serve macaroni alongside the chicken, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, let the chicken rest in the honey-garlic sauce a few minutes before serving to deepen the taste.
Prep the honey-garlic sauce ahead of time and refrigerate to speed up cooking on busy days.
To make the mac & cheese thicker, add an extra ounce or two of shredded cheddar cheese.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain creaminess and avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and be less juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the mac & cheese?

Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, but you can substitute with sour cream or omit it for a traditional-style mac & cheese.

Ella Hart