Jump to Recipe Print RecipeIn the midst of a busy week, I found myself staring at my pantry contemplating dinner, when BAM! The idea struck—a creamy, Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese like no other! This dish is an absolute game-changer, combining comfort food with an unexpected zing that had my taste buds dancing. Not only is it a quick preparation that lets me indulge without fuss, but it also allows for endless customization—whether you’re gluten-free or leaning vegetarian, it’s got you covered. Imagine a lively mix of tender pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, topped off with crispy chicken and a hint of sweet and spicy goodness. What could be better for a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends? Let’s dive into a bowl of deliciousness that promises to delight every palate! Ready to uncover the secrets of this delectable recipe? Is This Your New Favorite Mac and Cheese? Comforting yet Unique: This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing excitement to your dinner table. Quick Prep: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels like a Sunday feast, perfect for busy weeknights. Endless Customization: Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or want to go vegetarian, this recipe is adaptable to meet your needs. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy cheese, crunchy chicken, and a kick from the honey pepper sauce makes every bite an irresistible joy! Pair it with a side of garlic bread or salad for a balanced meal, and you’ll see why this will be on your regular rotation! Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Ingredients For the Pasta • Spiral Noodles – 16 oz – This shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and giving you that delightful bite! For the Chicken • Breaded Chicken Strips – 25 oz – Offers protein and can be baked or fried for extra crunch. For the Bacon • Cooked Bacon – 5 slices – Crumbled for that smoky flavor; feel free to add extra for garnish! For Seasoning • Salt – To taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors. • Pepper – To taste – Helps to elevate the taste profile. • Basil – Fresh for garnish – Adds a fragrant note; dried can be used if fresh isn’t available. For the Sauce • Honey – 3/4 cup – Sweetens the sauce beautifully! • Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup – For that lovely caramelization. • Soy Sauce – 3 Tbs – Adds umami richness; opt for low sodium if desired. • Pineapple Juice – 1/4 cup – Brings fruity tang to balance the honey. • Lemon Juice – Juice of 1 whole lemon – Adds brightness and cuts through sweetness. • Vinegar – 1 Tbs – Provides acidity to uplift the flavors. • Black Pepper – 1 tsp – Gives a gentle kick. • Cayenne Pepper – 1/4 tsp – Introduces heat; you can omit for a milder dish. For the Cheese Sauce • Butter – 1 stick – The foundation for a creamy sauce. • Heavy Cream – 2 cups – Ensures smooth, luxurious texture. • Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup shredded – Adds depth of flavor. • Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup shredded – Gives that stretch and creaminess we all love. • Colby Jack Cheese – 3/4 cup shredded – A robust flavor addition. • Garlic – 2-3 cloves minced – Adds aromatic depth to the sauce. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Step 1: Cook Chicken Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking or heat oil for frying. Follow the package instructions to cook the breaded chicken strips until golden brown and crispy, typically around 20 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. This crunchy chicken will be the highlight on top of your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! Step 2: Boil Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 16 ounces of spiral noodles and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial, preventing the noodles from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce. Step 3: Prepare Honey Pepper Sauce In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 15 minutes until it thickens. This sweet and spicy concoction will add a wonderful flavor dimension to your dish! Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce In a large skillet or pot, melt 1 stick of butter over medium heat, then pour in 2 cups of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Gradually add 1/2 cup parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, and 3/4 cup Colby Jack cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and creamy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to add 2-3 minced garlic cloves during this process for an aromatic depth to your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Gently fold the cooked spiral noodles into the rich cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is coated in creamy goodness. Next, add in the crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor and mix gently to combine all ingredients. Off the heat, this cheesy mixture should be thick and indulgent, ready to embrace the finishing touches of your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Step 6: Coat Chicken Take the cooked chicken strips and dip each one into the prepared honey pepper sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. This step adds an irresistible glaze to the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Place the coated chicken strips on top of the cheesy pasta mixture for a delightful presentation. Step 7: Serve Divide the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese into serving bowls. Generously top each bowl with the honey pepper chicken and garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and aroma. Serve immediately while warm and creamy, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious, comforting meal together! Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Variations Feel free to get creative with your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese to suit your tastebuds and dietary preferences! Gluten-Free: Substitute spiral noodles for gluten-free pasta for those sensitive to gluten. Enjoy the same creamy texture and flavors without compromise! Vegetarian: Replace chicken and bacon with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a delightful meat-free option. This adds a lovely earthiness while still letting the sauce shine! Extra Cheesy: Incorporate gouda or sharp cheddar cheese for an even richer flavor profile. Each cheesy bite will become a heartwarming delight! Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick that elevates your dish to another level. It’s perfect for spice lovers seeking that extra thrill! Smoky Flavor: Use smoked bacon or even a splash of liquid smoke for a deep, rich flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the honey. Smokiness can bring a new dimension of taste! Fruit Twist: Mix in sautéed apples or fresh pineapple chunks to balance the savory and sweet aspects of this dish. It’s a flavor combination that surprises and delights with every forkful! Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with a mix of Greek yogurt and a bit of milk. You’ll still enjoy a creamy texture with less guilt! Nutty Goodness: Stir in roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunchy texture that complements the dish nicely. The unexpected bite adds another layer of satisfaction! Feel free to experiment with any of these ideas or incorporate your own favorite flavors, making this dish truly yours. And if you want a refreshing side, pair it with a classic Caesar salad or a slice of garlic bread! What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese A delicious meal is made complete with thoughtfully chosen sides that elevate your dining experience! Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy mac and cheese, making every bite more delightful. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and zesty dressing provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheesy pasta, adding a touch of brightness. Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy a colorful medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a healthy contrast that pairs beautifully with the dish’s flavors. Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of a creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing texture and flavor dimension, making for a tantalizing side option. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with fresh berries or tropical fruits lends a sweet, vibrant side that harmonizes with the dish’s sweet and spicy notes. Iced Tea: A cool glass of iced tea, perhaps sweetened with a hint of lemon, is a gorgeous refreshing drink that complements the flavors of your meal. Expert Tips for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Cheese Sequence: Stir in one type of cheese at a time to ensure a smooth, clump-free cheese sauce. Pasta Perfection: Cook the spiral noodles just until al dente; overcooking can lead to mushiness in your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Seasoning Balance: Always taste your cheese sauce before adjusting salt and pepper; flavors deepen as they combine. Reheating Tips: If storing leftovers, reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess without drying it out. Temperature Check: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and optimum flavor. Customization Bliss: Feel free to add extra toppings or substitutions, like jalapeños for more heat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs! How to Store and Freeze Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Make sure the dish is cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture of the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Make-Ahead: Prepare the cheese and honey pepper sauces up to 3 days in advance and store them separately in the fridge for quick assembly later. Make Ahead Options These Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cheese sauce and honey pepper sauce up to 3 days in advance; just let them cool completely before refrigerating to maintain quality. The cooked chicken can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauces gently on the stove and add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon. Top with the chicken coated in the honey pepper sauce, and you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort! Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose firm, fresh basil with vibrant green leaves. For the chicken, look for strips that are evenly breaded and have no dark spots. If using fresh pineapple, ensure it’s slightly fragrant and gives a little when pressed for that perfect tang in the sauce! What’s the best way to store leftovers of this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese? Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy. For best results, reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep that creamy texture. Can I freeze Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese? Absolutely! You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then portion it out. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a touch of milk if needed to restore creaminess. What if I encounter clumping in my cheese sauce while preparing Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese? No worries! If your cheese sauce clumps, try these steps: Remove the pan from heat, and add a little more heavy cream or milk, stirring vigorously to smooth out clumps. Gradually add in your cheeses one at a time while stirring constantly. This helps to incorporate them smoothly and creates that luscious, creamy texture we all love. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this dish? Yes! If you have allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce and cheese, as they contain allergens like wheat and dairy. For gluten-free options, substitute spiral noodles with gluten-free pasta. You can also make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken and bacon with roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable meal! Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Bliss Discover a delightful twist on a classic with Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, combining comfort food with an unexpected zing. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta16 oz Spiral Noodles This shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.For the Chicken25 oz Breaded Chicken Strips Can be baked or fried for extra crunch.For the Bacon5 slices Cooked Bacon Crumble for a smoky flavor.For SeasoningSalt To taste.Pepper To taste.Basil Fresh for garnish.For the Sauce3/4 cup Honey Sweetens the sauce beautifully.1/4 cup Brown Sugar For caramelization.3 Tbs Soy Sauce Adds umami richness.1/4 cup Pineapple Juice Brings fruity tang.1 whole lemon Lemon Juice Adds brightness.1 Tbs Vinegar Provides acidity.1 tsp Black Pepper Gives a gentle kick.1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Introduces heat.For the Cheese Sauce1 stick Butter Foundation for a creamy sauce.2 cups Heavy Cream Ensures smooth texture.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds depth of flavor.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese For creaminess.3/4 cup Colby Jack Cheese Robust flavor addition.2-3 cloves Garlic Minced for depth. Equipment large potMedium saucepanLarge SkilletColanderOven Method Cook ChickenPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking or heat oil for frying. Cook the breaded chicken strips until golden brown, about 20 minutes.Boil PastaBring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add spiral noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.Prepare Honey Pepper SauceIn a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes until thick.Make Cheese SauceIn a skillet, melt butter, then add heavy cream. Gradually add parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack cheese until melted. Stir in minced garlic.Combine IngredientsFold the cooked noodles into the cheese sauce, then add crumbled bacon and mix gently.Coat ChickenDip the cooked chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce and place on top of the cheesy pasta.ServeDivide into bowls, top with honey pepper chicken, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 38gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg NotesFeel free to customize with extra toppings or substitutions like jalapeños or gluten-free pasta. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
