Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese offers a delightful balance of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a unique honey-pepper kick. The savory and slightly sweet sauce gives this classic comfort food a gourmet twist. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to please any crowd. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or a comforting meal for yourself, this dish checks all the boxes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Add honey and black pepper to create the signature sweet-spicy flavor.

3. Cook the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine: Add pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat. Fold in the cooked chicken.

5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with honey, and garnish with parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or parmesan for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

How do I make the cheese sauce smooth?

Make sure to whisk continuously when adding milk to the roux, and keep the heat low when adding the cheese to prevent it from curdling.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with pasta like cavatappi or penne, as long as it has curves or ridges to trap the sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more black pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything.

What’s the best way to reheat mac and cheese?

Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of milk to restore the creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid the cheese from separating.

Can I freeze this dish?

While mac and cheese can be frozen, the texture of the cheese sauce might change. If freezing, allow it to cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or stovetop.

Can I use low-fat milk or cheese?

You can, but the sauce might not be as rich and creamy. Whole milk and full-fat cheese offer the best texture and flavor.

How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in a blend of spices and honey for 30 minutes before cooking for added depth of flavor.

Can I skip the honey?

If you prefer a savory dish, you can omit the honey, but it balances the spice and richness. Alternatively, use maple syrup for a different sweetness.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Roasted vegetables like broccoli or peas pair wonderfully with mac and cheese and add some freshness.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful take on a classic comfort food, offering creamy, cheesy goodness with a subtle sweet-spicy twist. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy. With endless customization options, it’s a versatile meal that will please any palate. Enjoy!

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese 

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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Tender chicken is seasoned with spices and paired with a creamy, cheesy sauce that features a unique honey-pepper kick. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. With its balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it!

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 40min
• Yield: 4-6servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

12 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

• Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Add honey and black pepper for the sweet-spicy flavor.

• Cook the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Combine: Add pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat. Fold in the cooked chicken.

• Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with honey, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Protein Swaps: Use shrimp for a seafood twist or tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Cheese Variety: Try gouda, parmesan, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

• Add Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or peas pair wonderfully with this dish and add some extra freshness