Winter evenings call for something truly warming and hearty. You want comfort food that actually makes you feel good. This high protein honey garlic chicken delivers exactly that. It combines sticky, sweet chicken with creamy, guilt-free pasta. It is the perfect hug in a bowl for cold nights.
You might think mac and cheese is off-limits for healthy eating. Think again! We use clever swaps to keep things balanced and filling. This recipe is designed to fuel your body and satisfy your cravings. Your whole family will be asking for seconds tonight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a total game-changer for your weekly meal prep routine. It stays fresh and delicious in the fridge for days. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic is pure magic. It feels like a restaurant treat but fits your goals.
You only need two pans and about 40 minutes. It is simple enough for any busy weeknight dinner. The high protein content keeps you full and satisfied for longer. It is truly the ultimate macro-friendly comfort food for your family.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly straightforward and rewarding. You will cook the pasta while the chicken sears to golden perfection. The sauce comes together in the same pan to save on cleanup. Even beginner cooks can master this impressive meal easily.
The secret is using Greek yogurt for the creamy pasta sauce. It adds a lovely tang and a huge protein boost. You will love how glossy and thick the honey garlic glaze becomes. It coats every single piece of tender chicken beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
We use mostly pantry staples and fresh chicken for this recipe. It is budget-friendly and easy to shop for.
- 600g chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 250g high-protein chickpea or lentil pasta
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup skim milk
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook the high-protein pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and cornstarch, tossing to coat evenly.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside then reduce heat to medium.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in honey and soy sauce, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly in the honey garlic glaze.
- Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.
- Stir in Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, skim milk, and smoked paprika until the cheese is melted and a creamy sauce forms.
- Divide the high-protein mac and cheese into four portions and top each with the honey garlic chicken.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm in deep, cozy bowls. The contrast between the creamy pasta and sticky chicken is absolutely divine. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It looks beautiful enough for a casual date night at home.
Pair it with steamed broccoli or a crisp side salad. The fresh greens balance the rich, cheesy flavors perfectly. If you are meal prepping, portion it out into glass containers immediately. Your future self will thank you during those busy lunch hours.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This recipe is excellent for making ahead on a Sunday afternoon. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or two. You may need a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. It stays creamy and delicious even after reheating.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overcook the chickpea pasta or it may become mushy.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the most vibrant and delicious flavor.
- Pat the chicken dry before adding cornstarch for a crispier sear.
- Stir the Greek yogurt in over low heat to prevent curdling.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Save a little pasta water to help the cheese sauce emulsify.
- Double the chicken portion if you need extra protein for your goals.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Try using boneless chicken thighs for a more succulent and juicy bite.
- Swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free pasta and tamari to make this dish entirely gluten-free.
- Add roasted butternut squash to the pasta for a seasonal fall twist.
Common Questions
Can I taste the Greek yogurt in the sauce?
You will mostly notice a creamy texture and a slight, pleasant tang. The cheddar cheese and smoked paprika are the dominant flavors here. It tastes just like traditional mac and cheese but much healthier.
What is the best pasta to use?
I recommend chickpea or lentil-based pasta for the highest protein content. They hold up well to the creamy sauce and keep you full. Regular whole wheat pasta also works perfectly for families.
I hope this cozy meal brings a little extra warmth to your kitchen this week. It is proof that healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying and delicious.
— Katie Wood
High Protein Honey Garlic Butter Chicken with Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 600 g chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarc h
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/4 cup hone y
- 2 tablespoons low -sodium soy sauce
- 250 g high -protein chickpea or lentil pasta
- 1 cup reduced -fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup non -fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup skim milk
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the high-protein pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and cornstarch, tossing to coat evenly.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside then reduce heat to medium.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in honey and soy sauce, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly in the honey garlic glaze.
- Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.
- Stir in Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, skim milk, and smoked paprika until the cheese is melted and a creamy sauce forms.
- Divide the high-protein mac and cheese into four portions and top each with the honey garlic chicken.
