Description

This High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac & Cheese combines tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory honey-garlic butter sauce with a creamy, protein-packed macaroni and cheese. The dish balances rich flavors with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and sharp cheddar, making it a comforting yet nutritious meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

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: Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and season 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 minced garlic cloves, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). This honey-garlic sauce will infuse the chicken with deep, sweet and savory flavors.
Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate to rest.
Make the honey-garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat to medium, add 2 tbsp unsalted butter to the same skillet, and pour in the prepared honey-garlic sauce. Stir constantly and bring to a simmer, letting the sauce thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and toss them in the sauce, coating thoroughly to absorb the delicious glaze.
Cook the macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and do not rinse to keep the pasta ready to absorb the sauce.
Prepare the creamy cheese sauce: Using the same pot or a clean one, melt 4 oz cream cheese over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in 2 cups 2% milk, stirring until smooth and consistent. Add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until melted and creamy, combining rich dairy with a hint of spice.
Combine macaroni with cheese sauce: Add the drained macaroni back into the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece with the creamy, cheesy mixture.
Serve and garnish: Plate generous portions of the creamy protein mac & cheese alongside the honey garlic butter chicken. Garnish with 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish that complements the rich flavors.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken rest in the honey-garlic sauce for a few minutes before serving to deepen the taste.
You can prepare the honey-garlic sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge to reduce cooking time on busy days.
If you prefer a thicker mac & cheese, add an additional ounce or two of shredded sharp cheddar cheese while melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain texture and flavor.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels and make the dish healthier.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Honey garlic chicken, high protein chicken, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, chicken thighs recipe, easy dinner