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
Scale
- 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