Save Pin This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Velvety smooth mac and cheese meets crispy, honey-glazed pepper chicken for an irresistible combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
The first time I made this for my family, everyone went back for seconds. The honey pepper glaze adds excitement to a nostalgic favorite and now it's one of our most requested dinners!
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups
- Mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: 2, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Buttermilk: 1 cup
- All-purpose flour (for dredging): 1 cup
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt (for chicken): 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: For frying
- Honey: 1/3 cup
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cracked black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Dredge chicken in the flour mixture and shake off excess. Fry until golden brown and crispy (about 4, 5 minutes per side). Place on a paper towel lined plate.
- Make the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over low heat for 2, 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Toss crispy chicken in the glaze to coat evenly.
- Cook the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1, 2 minutes. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top with honey pepper glazed chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra black pepper (optional).
Save Pin This mac and cheese is a hit at our family get-togethers. My kids love helping toss the chicken in the sweet and spicy glaze before serving.
Variations
You can swap mozzarella for colby jack or use spicy gouda for extra kick. Try baking the dish for a crispy topping.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
Leftover Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Save Pin This dish comes together quickly and always wows a crowd. Make it for your next dinner and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is best for the sauce?
Cheddar adds sharpness while mozzarella provides creaminess, making a rich and smooth sauce for the pasta.
- → How do I make the chicken crispy?
Soaking the chicken in buttermilk and dredging in seasoned flour, followed by frying in hot oil until golden, creates crispiness.
- → Is the honey pepper glaze spicy?
Yes, cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes add heat balanced by sweet honey. You can adjust spice to taste.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any short pasta such as penne, shells, or rotini works well with the cheese sauce.
- → How do I prevent the cheese sauce from turning grainy?
Slowly melt cheese into the warm milk mixture, stirring gently and constantly to keep the sauce velvety and smooth.
- → What garnishes pair well with this dish?
Fresh parsley, extra cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of cheese add flavor and vibrant presentation.