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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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