Introduction to Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something delicious can feel overwhelming. That’s where my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese comes in. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for those hectic weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and a hint of sweetness from the honey glaze, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just an hour from start to finish. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet, spicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, this dish will bring smiles to your dinner table!
Ingredients for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, these little pasta shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Butter: This adds richness to the cheese sauce, making it velvety and smooth.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce, giving it that perfect creamy texture.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances the flavors in the sauce.
- Heavy cream: For an extra indulgent touch, this makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Its sharp flavor is what makes mac and cheese so irresistible.
- mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding a gooey texture to the dish.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this brings a warm, savory depth to the cheese sauce.
- Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile, making it more complex and satisfying.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in the dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein that makes this dish hearty and filling. Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk keeps it juicy and tender while adding a slight tang.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken, ensuring it gets that crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Honey: The sweet star of the glaze, balancing the spice and adding a delightful shine.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the honey glaze, making it irresistible.
- Cracked black pepper: For a bit of heat and texture in the glaze.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little kick, these can be added to the glaze for extra spice.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
Prepare the Chicken
Soak and Dredge
Start by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
While the chicken is soaking, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This will be your dredging mixture. Once the chicken is ready, take each piece and coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This will give your chicken that delightful crispy crust!
Fry the Chicken
Cooking Instructions
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about half an inch deep. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the dredged chicken pieces.
Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This crispy chicken will be the star of your dish!
Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat this mixture over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the glaze to thicken slightly and become fragrant.
Once ready, toss the crispy chicken in the glaze until it’s evenly coated. This sweet and spicy glaze will elevate your dish to a whole new level!
Cook the Macaroni
Boil and Drain
While the chicken is frying, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a little pasta water; it can help adjust the cheese sauce later if needed!
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Create the Base
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce.
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently.
Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. This cheese sauce is the heart of your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!
Combine Everything
Mix and Serve
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls and top generously with the honey pepper glazed chicken. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra black pepper if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to soak the chicken long enough for maximum tenderness.
- Don’t rush the frying process; golden brown is key for that crispy texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
- Save some pasta water to adjust the cheese sauce consistency if needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the macaroni. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Frying pan: Essential for frying the chicken. A cast-iron skillet adds extra flavor.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the cheese sauce. A fork can work in a pinch!
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. You can use a kitchen scale if you prefer.
- Slotted spoon: Ideal for transferring the fried chicken. A regular spoon will do, but it won’t be as easy!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the cheese sauce for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese in advance. Just store the mac and cheese and the glazed chicken separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them together on the stovetop or in the oven.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk replacement!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique twist to your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and sweet honey glaze make it appealing to kids. You can adjust the spice level by omitting the red pepper flakes if your little ones prefer milder flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those we love. My Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a perfect example of that. It’s a dish that brings comfort and smiles to the dinner table, making even the busiest days feel special. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet, spicy chicken is a delightful experience for the taste buds. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family’s culinary adventures, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something delicious can feel overwhelming. That’s where my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese comes in. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for those hectic weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy texture and a hint of sweetness from the honey glaze, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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).
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese for added flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
