Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese blends sweet and spicy for an extraordinary comfort food experience, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow macaroni Substitute with gluten-free pasta if necessary.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pcs Boneless skinless chicken breasts Chicken thighs may be used for more flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Can swap with vegetable oil if preferred.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
For the Honey Pepper Sauce
  • 1/3 cup Honey Agave nectar can be a vegan substitute.
  • 1 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes Adjust quantity to taste based on spice preference.
  • 3 tbsp Butter Use margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 3 tbsp All-purpose flour Could use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Milk Unsweetened almond milk works as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Substitute with a dairy-free cheese blend if needed.
  • 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Aged gouda can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped parsley Optional for garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta by boiling salted water, adding elbow macaroni, and cooking according to package instructions until al dente, typically 7–9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and black pepper and sauté for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and rest.
  3. Return the skillet on low heat, pour in honey and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir for 1–2 minutes until chicken is coated. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Melt butter in a medium saucepan, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir for 3–5 minutes until thickened, adding garlic and onion powder.
  6. Lower heat and mix in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and velvety.
  7. Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Incorporate honey-glazed chicken pieces evenly.
  8. Transfer to a baking dish, optionally sprinkle more cheese. Broil at 400°F for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Expert tips: Whisk constantly to avoid lumps, use fresh cheese, don't overcrowd the pan, adjust spice levels to taste, and let the dish rest before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!