Description
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines sweet-and-spicy glazed chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a flavorful, satisfying dish everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (or chicken tenders)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging
- 2 eggs, beaten – helps the breadcrumbs stick
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs – adds extra crunch
- Salt and pepper – for seasoning the chicken
For the Honey Pepper Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey – the base for the sweetness
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds savory depth
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – for a touch of heat
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – balances the flavors
- 1 clove garlic, minced – enhances the aroma
For the Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – the classic pasta base
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter – to start the roux
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens the cheese sauce
- 2 cups milk – for a creamy consistency
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – the main cheese for flavor
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a nutty, salty kick
Optional Add-On
- Fresh parsley – for garnish
- Extra red pepper flakes – for added spice
- Breadcrumb topping – for a crispy, golden crust
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your chicken strips by either baking or frying them according to the package instructions. If you’re feeling adventurous, make them from scratch for a personal touch. Once cooked, set them aside.
Step 2: Cook your spiral noodles until they’re perfectly al dente, as they’ll need to hold up to the creamy cheese sauce later. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the honey pepper sauce by combining all the ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Once ready, set it aside to cool.
Step 4: Create the cheese sauce—the soul of this dish. Melt butter and cream together in a saucepan, then gradually whisk in the cheeses and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and velvety. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for the perfect balance.
Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Add crispy bacon for a delicious smoky crunch.
Step 6: Coat the chicken strips in the honey pepper sauce, making sure each piece is evenly glazed with its sweet and spicy goodness.
Step 7: For serving, plate a generous portion of cheesy pasta, top it with the glazed chicken strips, and garnish with fresh basil. Add a sprinkle of extra bacon for good measure—because there’s no such thing as too much bacon!
Notes
If you love the comforting flavors of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese but need a gluten-free option, no problem! Simply swap the noodles for gluten-free pasta—there are plenty of great options that deliver excellent texture and taste. For the chicken strips, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to achieve a crispy coating. With these easy adjustments, you can enjoy every delicious bite of this classic comfort dish without worrying about gluten.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 people
Keywords: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese