Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

“`html

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting dish that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and creamy indulgence, this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It takes classic mac and cheese to a whole new level by introducing tender, honey-glazed chicken with a kick of peppery heat, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that hugs every bite of tender macaroni. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring this dish to life. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of rich flavor, silky texture, and vibrant color that make this recipe such a standout.

• 2 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to nestle that creamy cheese sauce and chicken pieces.
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: Tender protein that soaks up the sweet and spicy glaze beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to a golden perfection without overpowering it.
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the cheese sauce.
• 1/4 cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that contrasts gorgeously with the pepper’s heat.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides a subtle umami depth, enhancing the glaze’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Gives the dish a thrilling spicy kick to awaken your taste buds.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of the roux that creates a silky cheese sauce texture.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into that luscious, creamy consistency.
• 2 cups milk: Brings smoothness and body to the cheese sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and velvety creaminess to the dish.
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star cheese with its sharp, tangy flavor that defines mac and cheese.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty depth and boosts the overall cheesiness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory notes to complement the cheesy sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor complexity with a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain it thoroughly and set aside. This step ensures your pasta will have the perfect tender bite to soak up all the rich cheese sauce later.

Step 2: Cook and season the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add it to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through. This creates a deliciously seared exterior that locks in the juiciness.

Step 3: Glaze the chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this glossy mixture over the cooked chicken and stir well to coat each piece evenly. This sweet and spicy glaze is what gives this dish its unforgettable flavor personality. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the roux

In a large pot or deep saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This step cooks out the flour’s raw taste and forms a smooth base called a roux, crucial for thickening the sauce to that luscious creamy texture you crave.

Step 5: Create the cheese sauce base

Slowly add milk and heavy cream to the roux while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This silky blend is what makes the sauce so dreamy and indulgent.

Step 6: Add the cheeses and seasonings

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until completely melted and smooth. Then, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. This combination builds layers of sharp, savory, and nutty flavors that make the cheese sauce truly sing.

Step 7: Combine pasta and cheese sauce

Add the drained elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently until every noodle is bathed in creamy, cheesy goodness. This step is pure comfort food magic, bringing the signature mac and cheese texture to life.

Step 8: Fold in the honey pepper chicken

Finally, carefully fold the honey pepper chicken into the mac and cheese, distributing those flavorful bites evenly throughout. This last step binds the entire dish together with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy notes.

Step 9: Serve hot

Dish out generous portions while still warm. You can sprinkle extra cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes on top if you want an extra visual pop and flavor kick. Get ready for happy smiles around the table!

How to Serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or green onions work beautifully as a garnish, adding a burst of color and a mild herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. For a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on top make each spoonful even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, which refreshes the palate. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provide a nutrient boost and textural contrast that balances out the creamy main.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese in individual ramekins and broil the tops to achieve a golden, bubbly crust for an upscale look. You could also scoop it into bell pepper halves or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful, crowd-pleasing presentation that’s as fun as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. This dish will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe freezes well if stored properly. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers with tight-fitting lids and freeze for up to 2 months. Label your containers to keep track for quick reheating later.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore that smooth, creamy texture. If needed, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back its silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for mac and cheese, penne, shells, or rotini all work wonderfully. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe has a gentle kick from the crushed red pepper flakes, balanced out by the honey’s sweetness. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper to fit your spice preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be substituted. Just be sure to toss it with the honey pepper glaze in the pan to make sure it’s flavorful and heated through before mixing it in.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is the primary cheese for its sharpness and meltability, but combining it with Parmesan adds a nice depth and nuttiness. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different twist.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

It’s a bit tricky because the creamy sauce depends on butter, cream, and cheese for texture and flavor. However, using dairy-free butter alternatives, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese substitutes could work with some adjustments and experimentation.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like digging into a bowl of this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe, where sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors mingle beautifully in a comforting, creamy hug. It’s an easy-to-make dish that feels special, guaranteed to brighten up any mealtime. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!

“`

Print