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–+ servings
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic, combining rich cheese with honey sweetness and pepper spice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni opt for whole wheat for extra nutrition
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil can be swapped with butter
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper consider sea salt for more flavor
For the Sweet and Spicy Flavor
  • 1/4 cup Honey can swap for maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes adjust to spice preference
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 3 tbsp Butter use light butter for healthier option
  • 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour cornstarch works as gluten-free
  • 2 cups Milk plant-based milk is a good substitute
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh garlic adds a nice touch
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder sautéing fresh onion can enhance richness
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese can use low-fat options
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese can use low-fat options
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley optional; can use chives or skip

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, for about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to steam off excess moisture.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and no longer pink.
  3. Reduce heat and stir in honey and crushed red pepper flakes, coating chicken evenly. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
  4. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until light golden to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Add garlic powder and onion powder.
  6. Stir in shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Mix cooked macaroni into cheese sauce and gently fold in the honey-glazed chicken, ensuring ingredients are evenly combined.
  8. Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and broil for about 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best taste, taste as you go and adjust the flavor. Keep an eye on the broiling process to avoid burning.

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