Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the comforting allure of traditional macaroni and cheese with a bold twist of sweetness and spice. Pan-seared chicken glazed in honey and crushed red pepper contrasts beautifully with the ultra-creamy cheese sauce infused with garlic and onion notes. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, savory, and cheesy richness that will keep you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Bold Flavor: The honey and crushed red pepper glaze on the chicken adds a unique, sweet-spicy kick, while the cheesy sauce offers creamy comfort.
-
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
-
Comforting Yet Exciting: The classic mac and cheese base with a modern twist delivers all the nostalgia with a fresh, fun flavor combination.
-
Simple to Make: Despite its gourmet flavors, this recipe is easy and quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you want something indulgent.
-
Versatile: Customize the cheese, add vegetables, or even swap proteins to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
-
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
-
1 tbsp honey
-
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
For the Cheese Sauce:
-
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter
-
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
-
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
1/4 tsp garlic powder
-
1/4 tsp onion powder
For the Mac and Cheese:
-
2 cups elbow macaroni
-
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
-
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
-
Sauté the chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and browned.
-
Add honey and crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
-
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
-
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
-
Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
-
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Mac and Cheese
-
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat.
-
Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken pieces, ensuring even distribution.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
-
Transfer everything to a baking dish (optional: top with extra cheese).
-
Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
-
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 4 servings
-
Prep Time: 15 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
-
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
-
Buffalo Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese: Add buffalo sauce to the chicken glaze for a tangy, spicy kick.
-
BBQ Mac and Cheese: Swap the honey glaze for barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
-
Veggie Boost: Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
-
Crunchy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with butter before baking for a crispy finish.
Storage and Reheating
-
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
-
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. However, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful during longer cooking, so if you opt for breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The honey and red pepper glaze gives a mild heat, but it’s not overpowering. You can adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even scotch bonnet peppers for extra heat.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
4. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like gouda or provolone for a different flavor profile. A sharp cheddar blend works well, too.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of broiling, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake or broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free milk, like almond or oat milk, and substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also swap the butter for vegan butter.
7. How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?
Add the cheese slowly and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly. Avoid high heat, as this can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy.
Conclusion
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a mouthwatering fusion of classic comfort food with a modern twist. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, velvety cheese sauce, and a kick of heat offers something for everyone. Enjoy this indulgent dish that brings comfort and excitement in every bite!
Print
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. Tender pan-seared chicken glazed in honey and crushed red pepper sits on a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta. This dish balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors perfectly, creating a one-of-a-kind meal that will be requested again and again!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Pasta:
2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
For Garnish:
Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté chicken pieces for about 6–8 minutes until fully cooked.
Add honey and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to coat the chicken. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden.
Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and both cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken.
Step 5: Bake (Optional)
Transfer everything into a baking dish.
If desired, sprinkle with extra cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes to create a golden, bubbly topping.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Spice Adjustments: Add more or less crushed red pepper for your preferred spice level.
Cheese Choices: You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
