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 peppered chicken. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart. Originating from the fusion of Southern and American cuisines, this recipe has gained popularity for its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture. People love Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese because it combines the gooey goodness of cheese with tender chicken, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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 or even overnight will enhance the flavor. 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 golden color. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 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’ll use it later to adjust the cheese 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 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the 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 3-4 minutes. 10. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese 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

11. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheese sauce. 12. Next, fold in the cooked honey pepper chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese. 13. If you like a little extra crunch, you can transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Baking (Optional)

14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you opted for the breadcrumb topping, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. 15. If you prefer to skip the baking step, you can serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop. Just make sure to keep it warm until serving.

Serving

16. Once the mac and cheese is ready, remove it from the oven (if baked) and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese sauce set a bit. 17. Serve the honey pepper chicken mac and cheese in bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. 18. Enjoy

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 delicious creation! Let’s spread the love for this amazing recipe together! Print