HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

Introduction

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the best of both worlds: tender, flavorful chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food with a zesty twist, ideal for family dinners or a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering.

Ingredients

For the Honey Pepper Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt to taste

For the Mac and Cheese

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
4. Reduce the heat to low and drizzle the honey over the chicken. Stir to coat the chicken in the honey and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Mac and Cheese

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), and salt and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
2. Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
3. Serve the dish warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips

• Make it spicier: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken while cooking.
• Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, fontina, or parmesan to customize the flavor.
• Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
• Quick version: Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version, simply tossing it in the honey pepper sauce.

Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 60g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Conclusion

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and cheesy goodness that will have everyone coming back for more. The honey pepper chicken adds a unique flavor to the creamy mac and cheese, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again!