Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. The velvety smooth mac and cheese meets crispy, honey-glazed pepper chicken for an irresistible combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish combines mac and cheese with crispy chicken for a cozy meal that warms the soul.
• Gourmet Twist: The honey pepper glaze elevates traditional mac and cheese, making it suitable for special occasions.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in just 50 minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or share it at gatherings—everyone will love it!
• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a delightful mix of sweet and spicy that tantalizes your taste buds.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, having the right tools can make the process smoother. Here are some essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking the macaroni evenly without crowding.
• Frying pan: Great for achieving that crispy texture on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing coatings and sauces without mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Dredge chicken in the flour mixture and shake off excess.
5. Fry until golden brown and crispy (about 4–5 minutes per side). Place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

1. In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Toss crispy chicken in the glaze to coat evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce

1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.
3. Slowly add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously.
4. Reduce heat; stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
5. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
2. Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls.
3. Top with honey pepper glazed chicken.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra black pepper if desired.

Now you are ready to enjoy your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight! This recipe serves four people; perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends!

How to Serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Serving Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is an art that combines taste and presentation. This dish is not only comforting but can also be styled beautifully for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the mac and cheese in individual bowls for a personal touch. Top each bowl with a generous portion of honey pepper chicken for that perfect bite.

Family-Style Platter

• Arrange the mac and cheese on a large platter, topped with crispy chicken pieces. This makes it easy for guests to serve themselves and creates a festive atmosphere.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish servings with fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Accompanied by Breadsticks

• Serve alongside warm garlic breadsticks. The crunchy texture complements the creamy mac and cheese, making every bite delightful.

Pair with Salad

• A light side salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, balances the richness of the dish while adding freshness to your meal.

With Extra Sauce

• Offer additional honey pepper glaze on the side for those who enjoy extra sweetness and heat on their dishes.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight, follow these helpful tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Use high-quality cheese: Opt for good cheddar and mozzarella for richer flavor and creaminess in your cheese sauce.

• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook elbow macaroni al dente so it maintains its structure when mixed with the creamy sauce.

• Let chicken rest after frying: Allowing chicken to sit for a minute after frying helps retain its juices and crispiness.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of black pepper or red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crispy bacon bits or crushed tortilla chips on top for added texture and flavor.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the mac and cheese in advance, then bake when ready to serve for an easy weeknight meal.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious suggestions that complement this rich main course.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds crunch; perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance against the creamy richness of mac and cheese.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing brings freshness to your plate.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables add depth; roast them until caramelized for maximum flavor.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of chicken mac and cheese.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the dish well; grill or boil it for an easy side addition.

7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are fun to eat; season them well before baking for added flavor.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites, offering a sweet contrast to savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and taste test for perfect al dente texture.
• Skipping the Soak: Neglecting to soak the chicken in buttermilk can result in less juicy meat. Make sure to soak it for at least 20 minutes for tenderness.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Estimating ingredient quantities can throw off flavors. Use precise measurements for butter, flour, and cheese to achieve the right balance.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your mac and cheese adequately can leave it bland. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and spices; they enhance the overall taste.
• Rushing the Glaze: If you rush the honey pepper glaze, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to simmer on low heat while stirring frequently for the best consistency.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

• You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, stir gently until warmed up, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight.

Can I use different types of cheese?

You can definitely experiment with different cheeses! Try using gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

What sides pair well with Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How can I customize my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight?

Adding veggies like spinach or broccoli can enhance nutrition. You could also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that combines creamy textures with flavorful chicken. This recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try it out today!

Print

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet touch. This dish features a luscious, creamy mac and cheese base combined with crispy, honey-glazed pepper chicken, resulting in an irresistible blend of flavors that balances sweetness, spiciness, and creaminess. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this delightful recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for chicken coating)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Soak chicken in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes. Dredge in seasoned flour and fry until golden brown.
2. Prepare the honey pepper glaze by simmering honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. In a separate pot, make the cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, heavy cream, and cheeses.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and top with crispy chicken glazed in the honey mixture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 660
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 140mg