Description

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed in a flavorful honey-garlic butter sauce with creamy, protein-enriched macaroni and cheese. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for those seeking a delicious high-protein dinner option that balances sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite.

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 the chicken and sauce: Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and season 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 (optional) to create the honey-garlic sauce base.
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 golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the honey-garlic sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the skillet and pour in the prepared honey-garlic sauce. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Return chicken to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly in the sauce.
Cook the macaroni: While the chicken simmers, cook 12 oz elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well without rinsing and set aside.
Prepare the creamy cheese sauce: In the same or a clean pot, melt 4 oz cream cheese over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in 2 cups 2% milk until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg until the cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens.
Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring thoroughly until every piece is coated in the creamy mixture.
Plate and garnish: Serve generous portions of the creamy macaroni alongside the honey garlic butter chicken. Garnish with 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.

Notes

For extra flavor, allow the chicken to rest in the honey-garlic sauce for a few minutes before serving to enhance the taste.
Prepare the honey-garlic sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for quicker meal prep.
Add an extra ounce or two of shredded cheddar cheese if you prefer a thicker mac & cheese consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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