introduction
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a deliciously creamy dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze. This comforting meal is perfect for busy families seeking a quick dinner.
Table of Contents
why make this recipe
This recipe is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare. It features a short ingredient list, making it easy to throw together on a weeknight. Plus, the combination of cheeses creates a rich, creamy texture that everyone will love. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food that’s satisfying and indulgent.
how to make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
To make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you will start by cooking the elbow macaroni until al dente. Then, you will sauté the chicken to golden perfection before creating the honey pepper glaze. Finally, you will mix everything together with a creamy cheese sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Ingredients :
2 cups elbow macaroni, 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp butter, 2 cloves garlic, minced, Salt, to taste, Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions :
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and one teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey and remaining teaspoon of black pepper and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat the chicken pieces with the honey pepper glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer over low heat. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, whisking continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season to taste with salt.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine and ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Add the honey pepper chicken to the macaroni and cheese, folding gently to incorporate the chicken throughout.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!
how to serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve this delectable dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. This recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
how to store Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for a few days. When reheating, warm it in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
tips to make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Be cautious not to overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm to the bite. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go before starting, which will simplify the cooking process.
variation (if any)
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or grilled vegetables for a different twist on this recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish beforehand and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and adjust the sauce accordingly for a vegetarian-friendly option.
What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up while stirring until you reach the desired consistency.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Chicken and Glaze
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and one teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey and remaining teaspoon of black pepper and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat the chicken pieces with the honey pepper glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer over low heat. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, whisking continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season to taste with salt.
Combine
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine and ensure the pasta is well coated.
- Add the honey pepper chicken to the macaroni and cheese, folding gently to incorporate the chicken throughout.
Serving
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!