Looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, loaded with creamy cheese, and just the right balance of sweet and spicy? Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the answer to every comfort food craving. Imagine succulent bites of chicken glazed in honey and cracked black pepper, nestled into a gorgeously silky three-cheese sauce and swirled with perfectly cooked macaroni. Each forkful blends crispy, savory chicken with ribbons of melt-in-your-mouth cheese, delivering a hug-in-a-bowl you’ll want to make on repeat. This showstopper is easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for any potluck, adding a zesty twist to the classic mac and cheese you know and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese plays a starring role, whether it’s adding creamy richness, vibrant spice, or gorgeous color to your cheesy masterpiece. Don’t be surprised if you already have most of these simple staples in your kitchen!
- Elbow macaroni (8 oz): The classic for mac and cheese, but feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape for extra fun or texture.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Gives the chicken a golden sear without overwhelming its flavor.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast (1 lb): Tender, juicy bites soak up all those honey and pepper flavors.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning both your chicken and your creamy cheese sauce.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds gentle smoky warmth to both chicken and cheese — a flavor you’ll crave again and again.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): For that subtle, savory kick that rounds out the whole dish.
- Honey (2 tbsp): The secret ingredient that turns your chicken irresistible with every sticky, caramelized bite.
- Cracked black pepper (1 tbsp): Provides deep, spicy warmth that’s never overpowering but always present.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Makes your roux rich and indulgent.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the cheese sauce without any lumpiness — don’t skip this step!
- Whole milk (2 cups): The foundation of a creamy, luscious cheese sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For that stretchy, gooey factor everyone loves.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Packs a tangy flavor punch and gorgeous orange hue.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Brings a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal finish on top.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package directions, just until al dente. Drain and set aside so it doesn’t overcook. The firm texture of the pasta makes the perfect base for carrying all that luscious cheese sauce and zesty chicken.
Step 2: Sauté and Season the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for layers of flavor before they even hit the pan. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Glaze with Honey and Pepper
Once your chicken is deliciously browned, stir in the honey and cracked black pepper. Let everything bubble together for about a minute—just long enough for the honey to caramelize and the pepper to infuse every morsel, making this chicken truly irresistible. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk steadily for about 1 minute to form a roux, which thickens your sauce and ensures it turns out smooth (not clumpy). Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously, then cook until the sauce thickens—this should take 3 to 5 minutes of gentle patience. Once thick and creamy, turn the heat to low and stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until the sauce is completely silky and indulgent.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add your cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring with love until every noodle is coated. Gently fold in your honey pepper chicken, allowing the sweet-and-spicy glaze to swirl through the entire dish. Serve your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese piping hot, and sprinkle with parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
Finish your bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese with a shower of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Sprinkle on some extra cracked black pepper, or add a handful of crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch and smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is comfort food at its finest, so keep sides simple! Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some roasted broccoli. Warm garlic bread is always a hit for soaking up every last drop of that velvety cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins or ovenproof bowls, topped with breadcrumbs and baked for a few minutes until bubbly and golden. Or, scoop into hollowed-out bell peppers or bread bowls to turn it into a stunning centerpiece at your next get-together!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors only deepen, making tomorrow’s lunch just as exciting as tonight’s dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, though the texture may change slightly. Keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk to help restore creaminess whether you warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic, any short cut pasta like shells, rotini, or penne will hold up beautifully in Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Choose your favorite shape for extra fun.
What’s the best way to get the cheese sauce really creamy?
Whisk the milk into your roux slowly and keep stirring until it thickens. Melting the cheeses in on low heat ensures a smooth sauce that’s never grainy—don’t rush this step!
Is it spicy enough for kids?
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese strikes a sweet and gently spicy balance, but you can always use less black pepper or swap in mild paprika to keep it totally kid-friendly.
Can I make this dish ahead for a party?
Yes! Assemble the mac and cheese with chicken, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. When ready to serve, reheat it gently and add a splash of milk to keep everything creamy and luscious.
What’s a good substitute for Parmesan?
If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. The idea is to add a salty, nutty zing that amps up the cheesy flavor in Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the first bite of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese—creamy, savory, sweet, and peppery, all in one bowl. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new comfort food favorite too!
Print
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta is elevated with tender honey pepper chicken for a dish that balances sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp cracked black pepper
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Honey Pepper Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown. Stir in honey and cracked black pepper. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, cook until thickened. Reduce heat, stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Add pasta to cheese sauce, then fold in the honey pepper chicken. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Adjust honey and pepper for desired sweetness and heat level.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon for added texture.
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