How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s a unique twist on classic comfort food, combining the richness of mac and cheese with tender honey-glazed chicken, all balanced with a peppery kick. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and exciting, this dish is for you!
The first time I made this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, I wasn’t sure how the sweetness of honey would work with the savory mac and cheese, but my family absolutely fell in love with it. My husband couldn’t stop raving about the perfect combination of flavors, and the kids kept asking for more. Now, it’s a staple at our family gatherings, and no one ever leaves the table without asking for seconds. It’s quickly become a favorite recipe for us, perfect for cozy nights in or when we want to impress guests!
Why You’ll Love Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
•Sweet and Savory: The honey glaze on the chicken gives just the right amount of sweetness to balance the creamy, cheesy mac and cheese.
•Peppery Kick: A touch of black pepper and spices add a delicious warmth that complements the rich flavors.
•Comfort Food with a Twist: This isn’t your average mac and cheese—it’s elevated with honey-glazed chicken that will take your taste buds to the next level.
•Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a special treat, this dish is a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients Notes For Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
•Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders work best for easy preparation and glazing.
•Honey: Use good-quality honey for the glaze—it makes all the difference in flavor.
•Mac and Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella adds a perfect balance of cheesy goodness.
•Spices: Ground black pepper, cayenne, and paprika give the dish its signature peppery kick.
Recipe Steps For Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
•Cook 8 oz of elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
•In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth.
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•Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
•While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season 2 boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
•Sear the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Honey Pepper Glaze
•In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup honey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
•Brush the glaze over the cooked chicken and allow it to caramelize for 2 minutes on low heat.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
•Slice the honey-glazed chicken into strips. Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
•Serve the cheesy mac in bowls, topped with slices of honey pepper chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese, if desired.
Storage Options
•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.
•Freezer: While the mac and cheese portion freezes well, it’s best to glaze the chicken fresh before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
•Spicy Version: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or extra cayenne for a spicier kick.
•Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, and drizzle with the honey pepper glaze for a veggie twist.
•Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a richer flavor.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook PrintIngredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Honey: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the honey and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the chicken is well coated and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Mix Chicken and Pasta: Stir the cooked macaroni and honey pepper chicken into the cheese sauce, mixing until everything is well coated.
- Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
