The Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with tender, honey-glazed chicken pieces seasoned with a gentle kick of crushed red pepper flakes, and tossed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with sweet bursts of fresh peas, this dish is as satisfying as it is colorful. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, this recipe makes every bite a flavorful celebration of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness all in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken glazed in honey and spices to the creamy cheeses that turn macaroni into a luscious embrace of comfort. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken to enhance its natural flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that complements the peppery notes.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings depth and a slight umami touch to the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Provides just the right amount of heat to awaken your taste buds.
- 3 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy cheese sauce.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that silky smooth consistency we all love.
- 2 cups milk: Helps form the creamy backbone of the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings that sharp, classic mac and cheese flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas: A pop of color and a sweet bite that keeps things fresh and fun.
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives: For a bright, fresh finishing touch.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken tenders generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial because it builds the foundation of flavor right from the start. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This browning not only adds beautiful color but also layers of savory flavor that will make every bite irresistible. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside so you can prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
Using the same skillet, it’s time to create that irresistible glaze that gives this recipe its name. Add the honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir them together and let the mixture thicken slightly—this happens fairly quickly and intensifies those sweet and spicy flavors. Return the chicken to the pan and toss it in the glaze to coat every piece lovingly. The sticky honey glaze clinging to each tender piece is what transforms this dish into a memorable experience.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
While the chicken is soaking up all that flavor, boil your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until the noodles are perfectly al dente. This texture ensures that the pasta holds up well when mixed with the rich cheese sauce and the saucy chicken. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside patiently waiting to be bathed in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Now, onto the heart and soul of any mac and cheese recipe—the cheese sauce. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour until the mixture turns a lovely golden color and bubbles warmly. This step is key to avoid lumps and create a beautifully smooth base. Next, gradually whisk in the milk, stirring patiently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy and dreamy. Stir in both the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted, resulting in a luscious sauce that’s rich, tangy, and utterly comforting.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Bring everything together by adding the cooked macaroni and peas right into that velvety cheese sauce. The peas give the dish a lovely burst of freshness and a fun pop of green. Gently mix in the honey pepper chicken, making sure that every noodle and tender piece of chicken is coated in that delicious cheesy sauce, glistening with honey glaze. This harmony of flavors and textures truly makes the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe stand out.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once combined, your dish is ready to be served immediately. For an optional but highly recommended finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top. These fresh herbs bring a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness and makes each bite even more delightful.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped parsley or chives offers a lovely contrast in color and flavor, adding a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and sweetness of the honey. A light sprinkle right before serving brightens up the entire dish and creates an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
While this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is wonderfully filling on its own, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. These sides add texture and fresh vibrancy, rounding out your meal in the best possible way.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets. A sprinkle of extra parmesan and a quick broil under the grill creates a wonderfully golden crust that adds a crispy texture on top. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings where you want to impress your guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more after resting, but the cheese sauce may thicken as it cools—simply reheat gently to restore that creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your mac and cheese, cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat carefully to avoid curdling the cheese sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your mac and cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it seems too thick. Stir frequently until heated through and creamy again. This approach keeps your leftovers tasting fresh and delicious, almost like they were made that day.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese, feel free to use penne, shells, or rotini. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce and chicken.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free butter and use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may shift slightly, but the honey pepper chicken component still adds lots of deliciousness.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper in this dish?
The red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat that complements the sweetness of the honey. You can always adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or omit it entirely if you want a mild version.
Can I prepare the chicken glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey soy glaze and marinate the chicken in advance, even overnight. Just cook the chicken fresh to maintain its juiciness before combining with the mac and cheese.
What’s the best cheese combination for this recipe?
The classic cheddar and parmesan pairing provides a perfect balance of sharpness and umami. However, you can experiment by adding mozzarella for extra meltiness or smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a comforting yet exciting meal, the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s simple to make, packs layers of savory and sweet flavors, and turns an everyday meal into a celebration of taste. Don’t hesitate to give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner to share with loved ones.
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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Enhanced with fresh peas and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners that pleases both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For the Mac and Cheese
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to prepare them for cooking, ensuring they are well-flavored.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the honey pepper sauce: In the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside for combining later.
- Prepare the cheese sauce base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly, creating a roux.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Melt the cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses. Continue to mix until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine all components: Add the cooked macaroni and peas into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. Then fold in the honey pepper chicken, mixing until everything is evenly coated with sauce.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preference.
- If using frozen peas, you can add them straight to the cheese sauce without thawing as they will cook quickly.
- Substitute milk with a lower-fat option or plant-based milk if desired, adjusting cooking times slightly for thickening.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and pasta alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
