Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese because it brings the best of both worlds together—comforting mac and cheese with a fun twist of sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken. The creamy, cheesy pasta is complemented by crispy chicken strips drenched in a tangy, honey-pepper sauce. It’s a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the combination of chicken, cheese, and pasta makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

¾ cup honey
¼ cup light brown sugar
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup pineapple juice
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Cheese Sauce:

1 stick (½ cup) butter
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

16 ounces spiral noodles
25 ounces breaded chicken strips
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Chicken and Pasta: Bake or fry the breaded chicken strips according to the package instructions. Cook the spiral noodles in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Make the Honey Pepper Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until well coated. Dip each chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce until fully coated.
Serve: Plate the cheesy pasta mixture and top with the glazed chicken strips. Garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the honey pepper sauce for more heat.
Lighter Version: Use grilled chicken instead of breaded strips and substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness.
Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish doesn't freeze well due to the cheese sauce. However, you can freeze the chicken strips and honey pepper sauce separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat the mac and cheese on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Reheat the chicken strips in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chicken tenders instead of store-bought strips?

Absolutely! Homemade chicken tenders can add a personal touch and allow you to control the seasoning and quality of the chicken.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Store the pasta, cheese sauce, and chicken separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and reheat before serving.

Can I substitute the spiral noodles with another type of pasta?

Certainly! Feel free to use elbow macaroni, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the honey pepper sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or a plant-based protein and ensure the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious and hearty dish that will satisfy your comfort food cravings while adding a delightful burst of sweet and spicy flavor. The crispy chicken and creamy, cheesy pasta combine for an unforgettable meal, making this a go-to recipe for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!