Irresistible Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet honey, spicy pepper, and creamy cheese that makes Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese a standout dish. Picture this: golden macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce topped with juicy chicken pieces that have been kissed by honey and pepper. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—a chaotic weeknight when everyone was hangry after school. As soon as the aroma wafted through the house, my kids transformed from tired zombies into excited little chefs-in-training ready to dig in. This delightful creation pairs beautifully with movie nights or cozy family dinners where laughter fills the air.

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My kids still talk about that night—they were convinced I was a gourmet chef after tasting this divine mac and cheese!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust depending on your hunger levels or guest count.
• Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): Choose classic elbow macaroni or even shells for extra cheesy bites; both are equally delightful.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for robust flavor; trust me—your taste buds will thank you later.
• Honey: Opt for good-quality honey; it adds sweetness that balances perfectly with the spice.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper creates an aromatic kick that elevates each bite.
• Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess; you can substitute with half-and-half for extra decadence.
• Butter: Unsalted butter helps control salt levels while adding richness to the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
• Onion Powder: Adds depth to your sauce without requiring chopping—win-win!
• Salt: Season according to taste but remember that cheese can be salty too!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper; sauté until golden brown and cooked through.

Create the Sauce: In another saucepan, melt more butter over low heat. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk in milk gradually until smooth.

Add Cheese Galore: Stir shredded cheddar into the sauce until melted and creamy. Keep stirring until it reaches your desired consistency—adjust thickness by adding more milk if needed.

Mix it All Together: Combine cooked pasta with the chicken in a large mixing bowl. Pour cheese sauce over everything while stirring gently to coat every piece evenly.

Serve & Enjoy: Transfer your delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese into serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish with additional black pepper or parsley if desired—dig in while it’s warm!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence avoids overcooking any component and keeps everything fresh and delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Experimenting with different cheeses can also create delightful variations.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Cooking this recipe always brings back memories of my friends’ laughter as they devoured every last bite at our potluck dinner.

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like cheddar and gouda adds depth to your mac and cheese.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a meatless version.

How can I adjust the spiciness level?

To tone down the heat, reduce pepper or add more honey for balance in flavor.

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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors in a creamy cheese sauce. This irresistible recipe is sure to impress at family dinners!

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through.
3. In a saucepan, melt additional butter over low heat. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
4. Stir shredded cheddar into the sauce until melted and creamy. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
5. Combine cooked pasta with sautéed chicken in a mixing bowl. Pour cheese sauce over and mix gently to coat evenly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with extra black pepper or parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg