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 peppered chicken. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also warms your heart with every bite. Originating from the fusion of Southern and American cuisines, it has quickly become a favorite in many households, including mine. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a texture that is both indulgent and satisfying.

People love Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for its unique flavor profile that balances sweetness and spice, making it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup of honey
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
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 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make it easier to mix into the mac and cheese later. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. This mixture will serve as a sweet and spicy marinade for the chicken. 3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit for a few hours will enhance the flavor even more. 4. After marinating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. 5. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and has a nice caramelized color. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Preparing the Pasta

6. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. 7. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, as we might need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.

Making the Cheese Sauce

8. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken our cheese sauce. 9. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. 10. Once the sauce has thickened, add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. 11. Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Combining Everything

12. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly. 13. Next, fold in the cooked honey pepper chicken, ensuring it is well distributed throughout the mac and cheese. 14. If you like a little extra kick, you can sprinkle in some additional crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.

Assembling and Baking (Optional)

15. If you prefer a baked version of this dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 16. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. 17. If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. 18. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving

19. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese sauce set a bit. 20. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. 21. Serve the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese warm, and enjoy the

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 garden salad or some roasted vegetables to add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack, for an extra layer of flavor. You could even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. 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. Happy cooking! Print