Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Name: Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying; 1/3 cup honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: June 10, 2025

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Introduction to Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

As a busy mom myself, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that satisfies everyone. Enter my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese—the answer to your dinner dilemmas! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining gooey cheese and crispy chicken in a way your family won’t be able to resist. It’s perfect for those frantic weeknights when you need something easy yet delicious. Plus, it’s impressive enough to delight guests during weekend gatherings. Trust me, you’ll love making this as much as they’ll love eating it!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish is a culinary lifesaver! With its quick preparation and minimal cleanup, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. The creamy sauce envelops each elbow macaroni piece, while the crispy honey pepper chicken adds a delicious twist. It’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Plus, who doesn’t love a little sweetness paired with savory goodness?

Ingredients for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to creating the perfect Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:

Elbow macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese. It holds the sauce beautifully!
Butter: Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Used for thickening the sauce and for coating the chicken.

Whole milk: Essential for a creamy texture in the sauce.
Heavy cream: Makes the cheese sauce indulgently rich.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Offers that gooey goodness.

mozzarella cheese: Adds meltiness and stretches beautifully.
Garlic powder and onion powder: For an extra layer of flavor in the cheese sauce.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the dish.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfectly suited for frying.
Buttermilk: Keeps the chicken moist and tender while providing a tangy flavor.
Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth to the chicken coating.

Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken until it’s golden and crispy.
Honey: Sweetens the glaze and complements the peppery notes beautifully.
Soy sauce: Provides umami and depth to the glaze.

Cracked black pepper: Enhances the flavor profile with a spicy kick.
Red pepper flakes: Optional for those who love an extra bit of heat!

If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to use a blend of cheeses or non-dairy alternatives for a lighter version. For exact measurements, check out the bottom of the article where details are available for printing!

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Follow these straightforward steps to create a meal that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first, let’s marinate the chicken! Soak those bite-sized pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes. This not only tenderizes the chicken but adds a delightful tang. It’s a little step that makes a big difference, trust me!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While your chicken is soaking, it’s time to whip up the coating. In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend adds flavor and forms that crispy crust we all crave. Make sure to combine it well for an even coating. The chicken will love this seasoning!

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Now for the fun part! Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until shimmering. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Fry those pieces for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safely enjoyed. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Pepper Glaze

In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring as you go. You want to achieve a slightly thickened consistency to coat that gorgeous chicken perfectly. This glaze is the sweet and spicy star of the dish!

Step 5: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Don’t forget to taste for that al dente perfection! Drain and set aside, and be sure to give them a little rinse to stop the cooking process.

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once it’s smooth, reduce the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until it’s all melted and creamy. This is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Now, mix that cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce. Make sure every elbow is coated in deliciousness! Spoon into serving bowls and generously top with your crispy honey pepper chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional black pepper to make it look extra appetizing. Your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is ready to impress!

Tips for Success

Soak the chicken long enough to ensure tenderness—20 minutes is ideal.
Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature for perfect doneness.
Rinse macaroni after boiling to prevent it from sticking together.

For an extra creamy sauce, consider adding more heavy cream.
Make this dish ahead of time and reheat it for easy weeknight dinners!

Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling macaroni (a deep skillet works too).
Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce.
Frying pan for cooking the chicken (a cast-iron skillet is perfect).

Mixing bowls for marinating and coating.
Whisk for blending sauces and roux.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes to the chicken glaze for an extra spicy version that will tantalize your taste buds!

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a meat-free twist.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack or gouda can add unique flavors to the cheese sauce.
Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier alternative, use whole wheat elbow macaroni to boost fiber content without sacrificing taste.

Herbed Variation: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the cheese sauce for added freshness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Pair with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness!

A glass of chilled sweet tea makes a delightful drink combo.
For a festive touch, garnish with fresh parsley or microgreens before serving.
Present in colorful bowls to make dinner feel special and inviting.

FAQs about Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

As you get ready to create this delightful Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you might have a few questions. Here are some FAQs to help you out!

Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use any pasta shape you love like shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Prepare everything earlier in the day and assemble it right before baking. This way, you can simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

What if I don’t like spicy food? No problem! Just leave out the red pepper flakes in the glaze for a milder version that still packs flavor.

Can I freeze Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese? You can! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. Enjoy within two months for the best taste.

Final Thoughts

Cooking my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese has become one of my favorite evening rituals. The joy on my family’s faces as they dig into this dish makes every effort worth it. It’s amazing how a simple meal can spark laughter and create memories around the dinner table. You’ll find that cooking brings a sense of warmth and comfort into your home, not just nourishment for the body. So don your apron, turn up your favorite tunes, and embrace the magic of home-cooked meals—this one will definitely become a cherished classic!