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### Instructions:
**Step 1: Cook the Chicken**
1. **Prepare the chicken:** Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle a little olive oil into a skillet over medium heat.
2. **Cook the chicken:** Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
3. **Add honey:** In the final minute of cooking, drizzle honey over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This will create a beautiful glaze that adds a sweet note to the savory chicken.
4. **Rest and slice:** Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into bite-sized strips or cubes, ready to be added to the mac and cheese.
**Step 2: Cook the Macaroni**
1. **Boil the pasta:** While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. **Drain the pasta:** Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
**Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce**
1. **Start the sauce:** In the same large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce.
2. **Add milk and cream:** Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. **Melt the cheese:** Once the milk mixture is hot and beginning to thicken, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. **Season the sauce:** Add mustard powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference—don’t be afraid to add more pepper to give the dish that signature kick.
**Step 4: Combine and Assemble**
1. **Mix pasta and sauce:** Add the cooked pasta to the creamy cheese sauce and toss until well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
2. **Add the chicken:** Gently fold the sliced honey-pepper chicken into the mac and cheese. Stir to evenly distribute the chicken throughout the dish.
3. **Serve and garnish:** Spoon the creamy, cheesy pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper for an added flavor boost.
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### Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:
– **Add heat:** If you like a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken or the sauce.
– **Use a variety of cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses for a more complex flavor. Gruyère or Parmesan can add a lovely nutty depth to your mac and cheese.
– **Add vegetables:** For extra nutrition and flavor, try tossing in some sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or steamed broccoli to the mac and cheese before serving.
– **Make it a one-pan meal:** You can make the whole dish in a large skillet or Dutch oven for minimal cleanup and easy assembly.
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### Why You’ll Love This Dish:
– **Sweet and spicy:** The honey pepper chicken creates a perfect balance of sweetness and heat that complements the creamy mac and cheese base.
– **Comforting yet exciting:** It’s the ultimate comfort food, but with a modern twist that elevates it from basic to extraordinary.
– **Versatile:** You can adjust the flavors to your liking—whether you want more heat, more sweetness, or more cheese.
– **Satisfying:** The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken come together for a dish that is filling and comforting, making it perfect for any night of the week.
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### Conclusion:
**Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight** is the dish you never knew you needed but will soon become obsessed with. The sweet and savory honey-glazed chicken pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy cheese sauce, while the kick of pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. So why not treat yourself to this decadent yet easy-to-make dish? It’s guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy!
