Description
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delectable twist on a classic comfort food favorite. This dish features tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and a delightful sweet-and-spicy honey pepper glaze that tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this mac and cheese promises to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup pure honey
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Mix in garlic powder, paprika, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Combine cooked macaroni and chopped chicken into the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg