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 flavors of honey-glazed chicken and a hint of spice. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also warms your heart with its nostalgic essence. Growing up, mac and cheese was a staple in my household, but adding honey and pepper to the mix elevates it to a whole new level. The combination of sweet and spicy creates a flavor profile that is both unique and irresistible.

People love Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for its incredible taste and texture. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, while the tender chicken adds a satisfying bite. Plus, the honey and pepper glaze gives it a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is not only convenient to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that will surely 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
• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 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 medium bowl, combine the honey and black pepper. This mixture will serve as a sweet and spicy marinade for the chicken. Stir it well until the pepper is evenly distributed throughout the honey. 3. Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey-pepper mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. 4. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight will enhance the flavors even more. 5. After marinating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). 6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Preparing the Mac and Cheese

7. While the chicken is marinating, you can start cooking the macaroni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. 8. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden. 9. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. 10. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. 11. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated. This creamy mixture is the heart of our mac and cheese!

Assembling the Dish

12. Now it’s time to combine the chicken and mac and cheese. In a large baking dish, spread half of the mac and cheese mixture evenly across the bottom. 13. Layer the sliced honey pepper chicken on top of the mac and cheese. You can arrange it in a single layer or scatter it for a more rustic look. 14. Pour the remaining mac and cheese over the chicken, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that every bite has a delicious combination of flavors. 15. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This will create a delightful contrast to the creamy texture underneath.

Baking the Dish

16. Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible! 17. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling period helps the mac and cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

18. Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped

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 broccoli for an extra nutritional boost. I wholeheartedly 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!

Print