Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

March 22, 2025

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The aroma of melting cheese mixed with a hint of sweetness from honey and a kick from pepper fills the air as you prepare to dive into this culinary delight known as Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a comforting hug in a bowl that promises to excite your taste buds with every creamy bite.

As you gather around the table with family or friends, laughter mixed with the clinking of forks creates an atmosphere reminiscent of joyful gatherings. Picture this: a casual Friday night when you’re just too exhausted to cook anything elaborate but still want something delicious that feels special. This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is exactly what you need to elevate those ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes it a favorite for busy weeknights while offering an explosion of flavor that delights your palate
Its visual appeal, with golden-brown cheesy goodness topped with tender chicken pieces, will impress anyone at your table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize the ingredients according to your preferences or pantry staples
Perfect for both kids and adults alike!

I remember one rainy evening when I whipped up this dish for my friends—let’s just say there were no leftovers!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for macaroni and cheese; its shape holds onto creamy sauces beautifully.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they cook evenly without adding too much fat.
Honey: A sweet touch that balances the heat; opt for local varieties for unique flavors.
Fresh Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds warmth; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for that unforgettable tangy flavor; it melts perfectly.
Milk: Whole milk creates a rich and creamy sauce; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Butter: Adds richness; use unsalted butter to better control the flavor.
Flour: For thickening your cheesy sauce; all-purpose flour works best.
Garlic Powder: A subtle layer of flavor that enhances everything else; use generously!
Paprika: A hint of smokiness elevates the overall taste profile—trust me on this one!

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control how salty your dish becomes.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth and umami flavor; it’s worth using fresh if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients : Start by cooking elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Cook the Chicken : In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add seasoned chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Create Your Sauce : Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add more butter, then whisk in flour until bubbly. Gradually stir in milk and chicken broth while cooking until thickened.

Add Flavor : Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, honey, and half of the cheddar cheese until melted. Ensure everything combines beautifully into a velvety sauce.

Toss It All Together : Mix cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce along with diced chicken pieces. Stir until every noodle is coated with that luscious flavor.

Bake It Up : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, top it off with remaining cheddar cheese, then bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.

There you have it! A deliciously unique Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of sweet spice
The balance of flavors will make your tastebuds dance while creating a hearty meal that’s sure to impress family and friends

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by searing the chicken for a crispy finish, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce simultaneously to save time and ensure everything is hot and fresh.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color in your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always season your pasta water well; it’s your chance to infuse flavor right from the start
Use freshly grated cheese for that perfect melt and texture, and don’t rush searing your chicken – patience leads to golden perfection!

Sharing this recipe with friends created unforgettable memories, especially when they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. It was a hit during our last game night!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this dish without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less pepper according to your preference.

What type of cheese should I use?

A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives it a perfect creamy texture with rich flavor.

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