Senior magistrate Margaret Scott, sitting with two colleagues, told the husband: "It is fortunate she was not badly hurt.
"Whilst she is at home, she has the right to expect good behaviour from you and trust from you."
MacKay, from Heworth, York, admitted assault and was given a 12-month community order including 40 days' rehabilitative activities.
The punishment is expected to include lessons on how to behave towards his spouse and how to control his temper.
He was also ordered to pay £85 ($154) prosecution costs and an £85 ($154) statutory surcharge.
Harry Bayman, defending, said: "There was no good reason for him to lose his temper. It was a momentary thing.
"He lashed out by throwing a plate across the room, and unfortunately, hit his wife."
The husband had seen his GP for help with anger management.