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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 48 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish combining tender honey pepper glazed chicken with cheesy macaroni. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness from honey, a subtle kick of black and cayenne pepper, and the comforting richness of cheddar cheese sauce. Easy to make and great for family dinners, it features juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. Optional baking step adds a golden bubbly crust for extra texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup honey

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken along with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes.
  3. Add Honey and Pepper: Stir in the honey and black pepper into the cooked chicken. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the chicken to glaze.
  4. Make Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more milk if needed.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and honey pepper chicken. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  6. Optional Baking: For a baked finish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish: Remove from oven if baked. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.
  8. Serve: Spoon the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese into bowls and enjoy this creamy, sweet, and spicy comfort meal.

Notes

  • The cayenne pepper is optional but recommended for a subtle heat that balances the honey’s sweetness.
  • Make sure not to overcook the macaroni to keep a perfect al dente texture.
  • Adjust the cheese sauce consistency by adding milk gradually to avoid a too-thin or overly thick sauce.
  • This dish can be served without baking, but baking adds a delightful crispy top layer.
  • Use mild or sharp cheddar according to your flavor preference.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

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Find it online: https://yumfusionrecipes.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/