Print

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Print Recipe

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce with rich, cheesy macaroni pasta. This recipe delivers a bold balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with a luscious cheese sauce, perfect for satisfying hearty appetites and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta

Chicken and Sauce

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp oil (for sautéing)

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups milk
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just tender (al dente), then drain and set aside to prevent mushiness in the final dish.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and sauté them in a hot pan with a drizzle of oil. When nearly cooked through, add honey and freshly cracked black pepper, stirring until the chicken is beautifully glazed and caramelized.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking patiently to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in milk while continuously whisking. Once the sauce thickens, add garlic powder, salt, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until silky smooth.
  4. Combine Everything: Mix the cooked macaroni, honey pepper chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl or back in the pan. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
  5. Serve or Bake (Optional): For an indulgent finish, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly. Otherwise, serve immediately straight from the stovetop.

Notes

  • Cook macaroni just until al dente to retain texture in the final dish.
  • Use freshly ground black pepper for more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
  • Choose high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for richer flavor and better melting.
  • Whisk roux patiently to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth cheese sauce.
  • Allow the finished dish to rest a few minutes before serving so flavors meld and texture firms slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, honey pepper chicken, comfort food, creamy pasta, cheesy chicken, one pot meal

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese/