If you’re searching for a delightful meal that promises both comfort and a burst of flavor, look no further than Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese. This dish uniquely marries the creamy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the crispy crunch of chicken tenders coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this recipe serves as the perfect main course that will leave everyone craving more.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is not just another pasta dish. It’s a medley of textures and flavors that dances on your palate, blending the gooeyness of sharp cheddar cheese with the satisfying crunch of fried chicken. The drizzle of honey pepper glaze takes the classic mac and cheese to new heights, making it an irresistible option for both adults and kids alike. The balance of sweetness from honey and the kick from black pepper creates a flavor profile that’s both surprising and soothing. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, cheesy bowl of goodness with crispy chicken on top—pure comfort food at its finest!
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to have something quick yet delicious, as well as for gatherings where guests will appreciate the bold flavors. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Flavor-packed: The delightful blend of honey and black pepper in the glaze keeps each bite interesting, combining sweet, savory, and a hint of heat.
- Comforting and indulgent: Creamy mac and cheese topped with crispy chicken creates a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy cravings.
- Quick and easy: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family friendly: Kids will love the cheesiness of the mac and cheese and the crunch of the chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Customizable: This dish allows for variations—swap chicken for crispy cauliflower or tofu for a delightful vegetarian option.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To ensure your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese turns out perfectly, it’s important to set up your kitchen and gather the necessary tools and ingredients beforehand. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the macaroni. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare your workspace by setting out a cutting board for slicing the chicken. You’ll also need a few bowls for the dredging station: one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and another for breadcrumbs or panko.
Additionally, have a couple of skillets ready—one for frying the chicken and another for making the cheese sauce. A whisk and a wooden spoon will come in handy for mixing, while a large spoon or spatula can be used to combine all the components later. Lastly, prep a serving dish where you will plate your mac and cheese, making it convenient for serving.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 chicken breasts (or tenders), sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or panko
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1–2 teaspoons coarse black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Start off by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package recommendations until al dente, typically around 7–8 minutes. The goal is to have the pasta cooked but with a slight firmness, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the cheese sauce. After draining the macaroni, set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts into strips or cubes, depending on your preference. Set up a dredging station to make the breading process easy: place the seasoned flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs or panko in the last bowl. Start by dipping each piece of chicken into the flour, ensuring it is well-coated. Next, immerse it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. This three-step breading process guarantees a lovely crispy outer layer.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken strips, frying them for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Consider doing this in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking. After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil and enhance its crispiness.
Step 4: Create the Honey Pepper Glaze
In another saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Pour in the honey and sprinkle in the coarse black pepper, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly—this will be the sweet and spicy glaze that elevates your dish!
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
Using a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk or heavy cream, ensuring that there are no lumps, and stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. Finally, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and salt, stirring until everything is well-combined and melted heaven on the stove.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Now comes the beautiful moment where all components come together. Pour your drained macaroni into the cheesy sauce, stirring until every noodle is lavishly coated in the velvety mixture. At this point, you can plate the mac and cheese, topping it with your crispy chicken pieces. Finish by drizzling your honey pepper glaze generously over the top, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
Variations
- Protein: For a heartier version, consider using pork chops or shrimp for a complete change of pace. You could also try using crispy tofu or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for some added texture and nutrition. Green peas and diced bell peppers also work wonderfully.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, like smoked paprika for a smoky taste or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Cooking Notes
- Using freshly shredded cheese is key for getting that perfect melt. Pre-shredded cheeses often have anti-caking agents that can impact melt quality.
- Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken so you can achieve a golden-brown crust without overcooking the chicken inside.
- For a creamier mac and cheese, add an extra splash of milk while reheating leftovers to restore their luscious texture.
- If you’re opting for the vegetarian version, make sure to season your cauliflower or tofu well to ensure they hold up in flavor and texture against the cheesy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese with a fresh side salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Consider serving it with buttery garlic bread for a truly indulgent meal that feels luxurious and comforting at the same time.
Tips
- For optimal frying, ensure your chicken is at room temperature before coating and frying, encouraging even cooking throughout.
- If you’re cooking for kids, consider reducing the amount of black pepper for a milder version that’s still packed with excitement!
- Don’t skip on garnishes; fresh herbs not only add color but also enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Prepare the honey pepper glaze right before serving. This keeps it deliciously sticky and fresh!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 780 per serving
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mac and cheese and the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat them just before serving.
Can I freeze Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the prepared dish. Store it in an airtight container and consume within three months for optimal taste.
What can I use instead of chicken?
For a vegetarian version, swap out chicken for crispy cauliflower, tempeh, or tofu. You could also try using sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor.
How can I make the mac and cheese spicier?
Add a touch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or incorporate hot sauce into the honey pepper glaze for more heat that pairs deliciously with the sweet.
Conclusion
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates comfort food with a twist. With every bite of creamy mac and cheesy goodness topped with perfectly crispy chicken and a sweet glaze, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Remember to share your variations and experiences in the comments below, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends and family to join in on this delightful meal. Get ready to serve up smiles and satisfaction with this tasty creation that everyone will cherish!
Print
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is an irresistible comfort food that combines creamy mac and cheese with crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 chicken breasts (or tenders), sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or panko
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1–2 teaspoons coarse black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start off by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package recommendations until al dente, typically around 7–8 minutes. After draining the macaroni, set it aside to cool slightly.
- Slice your chicken breasts into strips or cubes, and set up a dredging station to make the breading process easy: place the seasoned flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in the last bowl. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken strips, frying them for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- In another saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Pour in the honey and sprinkle in the coarse black pepper, stirring continuously. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until thickened. Add shredded cheese, garlic powder, and salt; stir until melted.
- Combine the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until coated. Plate the mac and cheese, topping with the crispy chicken pieces and drizzling with honey pepper glaze.
Notes
Using freshly shredded cheese is key for getting that perfect melt. Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 780 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 45 g