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

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate chicken in honey and pepper before cooking. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique tastes. Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.