# Ingredient list:
→ Mac and Cheese
01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
07 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 - Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Honey Pepper Chicken
11 - 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
12 - 1 cup buttermilk
13 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
14 - 1 teaspoon paprika
15 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
17 - Vegetable oil, for frying
→ Honey Pepper Glaze
18 - 1/3 cup honey
19 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
20 - 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
21 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Garnish
22 - Fresh parsley or extra black pepper (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Place chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk, ensuring all are evenly coated. Refrigerate for a minimum of 20 minutes.
02 - Combine flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl and mix until thoroughly blended.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Dredge marinated chicken in seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
04 - In a small saucepan, blend honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
05 - Toss the fried chicken pieces in warm honey pepper glaze to ensure even coating.
06 - Boil elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
07 - Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until slightly thickened. Lower heat and fold in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and silky. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
08 - Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated and creamy.
09 - Spoon mac and cheese into bowls, top with glazed chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley or extra cracked black pepper if desired.
