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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop + Optional Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This honey pepper chicken mac and cheese is a rich, creamy, and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Sweet and spicy glazed chicken pairs perfectly with ultra-cheesy pasta for a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and easy enough for weeknights—yet special enough to impress.


Ingredients

  • For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tsp cracked black pepper (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • For the Mac and Cheese:
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (or other pasta)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ½ tsp paprika or ½ tsp mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes per side). Remove and rest.
  3. In the same pan, add honey, cracked pepper, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Return chicken to pan and coat in sauce. Slice chicken once cooled slightly.
  4. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
  5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until thickened, then stir in cheeses until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  6. Toss pasta with cheese sauce.
  7. Top with sliced honey pepper chicken and drizzle extra sauce over the top.
  8. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese (or breadcrumbs), and broil until golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut—just glaze it in the sauce.
  • Swap in gouda or pepper jack cheese for new flavor variations.
  • Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas for a veggie boost.
  • For crunch, top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.