Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

first made Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese on one of those hectic school nights when dinner needed to spark joy—not just fill bellies. The first time I served this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, my kids’ eyes popped at the sweet, peppery glaze over crispy chicken nestled into creamy, cheesy noodles. They dove in before I even plated it. That moment sealed it: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is now our go-to comfort food. It’s easy, cozy, and packed with flavor. Whenever I say “Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese,” our kitchen fills with anticipation—and I know dinner’s going to bring us together

Why You’ll Love This :

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy all at once. It combines tender honey-glazed chicken with creamy mac and cheese for a dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or hosting casual friends, this dish checks every box. The bold honey pepper glaze adds just the right kick, while the macaroni delivers that familiar creamy base everyone loves. Plus, it’s made in under an hour with easy-to-find ingredients. Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.

Ingredients for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious comfort meal:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
• Salt and pepper (to season chicken)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions & Variations for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

You can easily adjust this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese to suit your pantry. Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, or swap in turkey. Not into spice? Reduce the black pepper. Add some crunch with bacon or a breadcrumb topping. For a smoky twist, use smoked gouda or pepper jack in place of mozzarella. Gluten-free pasta and flour work great, too. This recipe is flexible, delicious, and built for real-life kitchens.

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, black pepper, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Pour the honey pepper sauce into the same skillet and simmer until it thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes. Return chicken to the skillet and coat well in the sauce.
6. In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
7. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly. Simmer until slightly thickened, then stir in all three cheeses.
8. Fold in the cooked pasta until evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
9. Spoon mac and cheese into bowls, top with glazed chicken, and garnish with parsley.

Pro Tips :

Use freshly cracked pepper for bold flavor. Don’t overcook the chicken—keep it juicy so it soaks up the honey glaze. Let your cheese melt gently in the sauce to avoid graininess. For even richer mac, add a splash of heavy cream. Want extra crunch? Add a quick breadcrumb topping under the broiler.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. For quick lunches, microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between each. Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate. Fresh is best!

What to Serve With Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a meal on its own, but pairing it with something fresh and light creates a beautiful balance. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette works well to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts are great veggie sides, and garlic bread adds a comforting crunch. Want to elevate it for guests? Serve it with sparkling apple cider or sweet iced tea to enhance the honey notes. Whether it’s a family dinner or casual gathering, this dish pairs perfectly with simple, flavorful sides.

FAQs About Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Nutrition Information (per serving of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	625
Protein	37g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	60g
Sugar	14g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	720mg

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