Description
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring tender chicken breasts glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. This comforting dish combines creamy cheddar cheese sauce with perfectly cooked macaroni, topped with juicy, flavorful chicken for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups macaroni, cooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Cook Chicken in Honey Pepper Sauce: Heat honey and black pepper together in a pan over medium heat until combined, then add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is browned and cooked through, allowing the honey pepper glaze to caramelize and coat the chicken.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly add the milk and stir continuously while gradually incorporating shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and fully melted.
- Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring well until every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheddar mixture.
- Serve: Slice the cooked honey pepper chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the mac and cheese just before serving to maintain their juicy texture and vibrant glaze.
Notes
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more pungent and aromatic flavor.
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
- Cook macaroni just until al dente to prevent mushy pasta when combined with sauce.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- If you prefer less sweetness, adjust the amount of honey in the chicken glaze accordingly.
