Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic mac and cheese, this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect recipe! Tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze is paired with creamy, cheesy pasta for a dish that’s irresistible. The combination of heat and sweetness will make your taste buds dance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet & Spicy – The honey pepper glaze adds a delicious balance of heat and sweetness.
Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, velvety mac and cheese sauce you won’t be able to resist.
Loaded with Protein – Chicken adds a hearty, protein-packed element.
Comfort Food with a Twist – A unique spin on a classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

✔ Skillet
✔ Medium pot for boiling pasta
✔ Whisk
✔ Large mixing bowl
✔ Spatula

How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, black pepper, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey pepper mixture over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the glaze thickens and coats the chicken.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Mac and Cheese

7. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat.
9. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
10. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
11. Once the sauce thickens (about 4-5 minutes), stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
12. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Mac and Cheese

13. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
14. Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken pieces, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed.
15. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

What to Serve with This Dish

Simple Green Salad – A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
Garlic Bread – A perfect side for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted broccoli or asparagus for a healthy touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Don’t Overcook the Chicken – To keep it juicy and tender, make sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches the right temperature.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.
Thicken the Sauce – If the cheese sauce feels too runny, let it cook a bit longer to reach your desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months (though the texture may change slightly).
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne or rigatoni.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like roasted peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the mac and cheese and chicken in advance, then combine and bake or reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a sweet and spicy twist. Creamy, cheesy pasta paired with savory, glazed chicken makes this dish both satisfying and unforgettable!

Try it out and let me know how you like it! Don’t forget to tag me on social media with your delicious creations!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 550 | Protein: 40g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 650mg

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