There are few things more comforting than a bowl of creamy mac and cheese—but add tender honey pepper chicken into the mix, and you’ve got yourself something truly special. This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is everything we love about comfort food: rich, cheesy, a little sweet, a little spicy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Before we dive in, don’t forget—you can subscribe to get this recipe delivered right to your inbox (and be the first to know when new cozy creations drop!). Now, let’s get to the magic.
What Is Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?
This recipe brings together two ultimate comfort dishes—savory-sweet honey pepper chicken and ultra-creamy mac and cheese. The result? A decadent one-pan dish that’s got layers of flavor and texture, all tied together by a velvety cheese sauce. It’s got a touch of heat from cracked black pepper, balanced with the sweetness of honey-glazed chicken, and all nestled into a golden, cheesy pasta bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate comfort food – Creamy, cheesy, sweet, and peppery all at once!
- Family-friendly – Kids love it, and grown-ups come back for seconds.
- One-dish dinner – Perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty and soul-warming.
- Make-ahead friendly – It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine tender chunks of golden-browned chicken glazed with sweet honey and cracked black pepper, folded into a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce. The pasta is perfectly al dente, with little pockets of cheese in every bite. The sweetness of the honey balances the bite of the black pepper, and the whole thing gets a golden finish under the broiler for a little crispy-cheesy magic. It’s indulgent, cozy, and downright addictive.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Protein-packed from the chicken.
- Customizable with cheese and seasoning options.
- Great for meal prep – portion it out for satisfying lunches.
- Crowd-pleaser – take it to a potluck and watch it disappear!
Ingredients for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this creamy, dreamy dish to life:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds great depth)
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta you love)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13 baking dish (optional for baked finish)
- Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese—highly recommended!)
Additions and Substitutions
Make it your own! Here are some easy swaps:
- Add bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky, salty kick.
- Swap cheeses: Try gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Use rotisserie chicken: Save time and still get all the flavor.
- Go gluten-free: Use GF pasta and flour for the roux.
How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sauté until golden and cooked through—about 6–8 minutes. Drizzle the honey over the chicken and stir to coat. Let it cook for 1–2 more minutes until slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5–6 minutes). Add garlic powder, ground mustard, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Fold the drained pasta and honey pepper chicken into the cheese sauce until well combined. You can stop here and serve it creamy, or…
Step 5 (Optional): Bake It
Pour everything into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden. YUM.
What to Serve with It
This dish is rich and satisfying, so light sides work best:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted or steamed broccoli
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Pickled veggies to cut the richness
Want something extra cheesy to go with it? Try these Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks. They’re soft, golden, and absolutely irresistible with pasta dishes like this!
Tips for the Creamiest Mac and Cheese
- Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – It’ll continue to cook in the sauce or oven.
- Warm your milk – Helps the sauce thicken faster and prevents clumps.
- Season generously – Cheese can mellow flavors, so don’t skimp on salt and pepper.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: Add a splash of milk and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to keep it creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish through Step 4, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes in the oven.
Is it very spicy?
Not at all! The black pepper adds a subtle heat that balances beautifully with the honey, but it’s not overwhelming. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful—just increase the cooking time slightly.
What if I don’t want to bake it?
No problem. It’s delicious straight from the stovetop—ultra creamy and ready in less time!
Wrap-Up: This Chicken Mac is Anything But Boring!
So there you have it—Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight in all its comforting, flavor-packed glory. This dish is the kind that brings people back to the table for seconds, the kind you’ll find yourself craving again by the end of the week. And honestly? I’m kicking myself for not having made it sooner!
Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this mac and cheese delivers. It’s comforting, flavorful, and full of little surprises in every bite.
Craving More Flavor Combos?
- Love chicken with a sweet-savory spin? You’ll go wild for this juicy Pineapple Chicken!
- Want something totally different for taco night? Try these flavor-packed Blackened Fish Tacos. They’re zesty, fresh, and full of spice.
Let’s Make It a Community Thing!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about it! Drop a review below and tag your delicious creations on Pinterest at The Kitchen Joyy. We’re building a community of flavor-lovers and weeknight meal heroes. Come join us! 💛🧀
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
Thanks for being here, and happy cooking, friend!