Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings together the rich creaminess of mac and cheese with the savory sweetness of honey and the kick of pepper. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart. Originating from the Southern United States, where comfort food reigns supreme, this recipe has become a beloved staple in many households, celebrated for its ability to bring family and friends together around the dinner table.

People adore Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta, while the tender, honey-glazed chicken adds a delightful sweetness, and the pepper provides just the right amount of heat. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly convenient to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of honey
• 2 tablespoons of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 8 ounces of elbow macaroni
• 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready for the chicken once we marinate it. 2. In a large bowl, combine the honey, black pepper, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth marinade. 3. Take the chicken breasts and place them in the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated. I like to let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour, but if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will do the trick. 4. Once the chicken is marinated, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 5. After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting period helps keep the chicken juicy.

Cooking the Macaroni

6. While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. 7. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Making the Cheese Sauce

8. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce. 9. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. 10. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. 11. Taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Combining Everything

12. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sliced chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is well-coated in that delicious, creamy cheese sauce. 13. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Topping and Baking

14. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. This will give the topping a nice golden color and added flavor. 15. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. This will create a lovely crunchy topping once baked. 16. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving the Dish

17. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help the mac and cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve. 18. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. 19. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet honey, spicy pepper, and creamy cheese. This dish is perfect for family gatherings

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is truly a must-try recipe that combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of honey pepper chicken. The balance of flavors is simply irresistible, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables to add a touch of brightness to your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy gouda, or even tossing in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s spread the love for this delicious recipe together!

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