Description
A comforting mac and cheese recipe featuring crispy chicken strips drizzled with a tangy, honey-pepper sauce for a sweet and spicy twist.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 ounces spiral noodles
- 25 ounces breaded chicken strips
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
- 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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
