ADVERTISEMENT
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, mac and cheese is a timeless favorite. But what if you could elevate it with savory, sweet, and spicy flavors? Enter Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese—a dish that takes the classic mac and cheese and adds a rich, juicy twist with honey-glazed chicken and a kick of pepper. The result is a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and full of bold flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
This recipe combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the sweetness of honey, the warmth of black pepper, and the succulent flavor of grilled or pan-seared chicken. It’s a complete meal in one pot, and it’s perfect for dinner, family gatherings, or even a special treat for yourself.
Why You’ll Love Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:
- Unique Flavor Combination: The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors from the honey pepper chicken and cheesy mac and cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that’s anything but ordinary.
- Creamy & Comforting: The cheesy sauce wraps around every bite of pasta, creating that rich, indulgent feel we all crave in mac and cheese, while the chicken adds a protein-packed boost.
- Versatile & Easy: Whether you’re using leftover chicken or cooking it fresh, this recipe is flexible and simple to make. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of cheese and tender chicken makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a bit of zest)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a bit of tan
