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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese That Comforts

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, combining sweet and spicy flavors in a creamy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Classic Comfort Food
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Macaroni
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni classic choice for perfectly creamy pasta texture
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced main protein that makes this dish hearty
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil use for cooking the chicken to add flavor
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly
For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
  • ¼ cup honey makes the dish sweet and succulent
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce adds depth and enhances the savory profile
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes gives a delightful kick
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter creates a rich base for the sauce
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour helps thicken the cheese sauce beautifully
  • 2 cups milk provides the creamy foundation
  • 1 cup heavy cream adds an extra layer of creaminess
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese melts into gooey perfection
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a tangy flavor boost
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder gives additional depth to the sauce

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7–9 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, until golden brown and no longer pink. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken, stirring gently to coat. Remove skillet from heat.
  4. In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  5. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir for about 3–5 minutes until mixture thickens.
  6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted. Add garlic powder and onion powder, plus salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add cooked macaroni back into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly until coated.
  8. Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken ensuring an even distribution.
  9. Serve hot and garnish with additional cheese or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 80gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For best flavor, reheat with a splash of milk if needed.

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