Description
An indulgent, cozy twist on classic mac and cheese — tender honey-pepper glazed chicken meets creamy, cheesy pasta for a heartwarming and flavor-packed comfort meal.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g),2 tbsp honey,2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (or to taste),300 g short pasta (elbow macaroni or shells),2 tbsp butter,2 tbsp all‑purpose flour,2 cups (480 ml) whole milk,1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded,1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded,½ cup grated Parmesan cheese,1 tbsp olive oil,Salt, to taste,Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep & Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry, season both sides with salt and pepper, and optionally sprinkle with red pepper flakes.,Step 2 – Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat. Cook chicken breasts 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.,Step 3 – Craft Honey Pepper Glaze: Reduce heat to medium. Pour honey into the same skillet, deglaze, swirl in extra cracked pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until glossy, then drizzle over sliced chicken.,Step 4 – Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, drain, reserve ¼ cup pasta water.,Step 5 – Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 min until golden. Slowly whisk in milk until it thickens. Remove from heat, stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.,Step 6 – Combine & Serve: Toss pasta into cheese sauce, add sliced glazed chicken, stirring gently so the honey‑pepper glaze remains visible. Optionally transfer to a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until golden.,Step 7 – Garnish & Serve: Finish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of honey or red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Shortcuts: Use shredded rotisserie chicken tossed in warm honey‑pepper glaze to save time.,Cheese Variations: Try gruyère or fontina for richer flavor.,Gluten‑Free Option: Use gluten‑free pasta and flour blend.,Add‑Ins: Mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or baby spinach for color and freshness.