Description
Indulge in the creamy richness of Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, a delightful fusion that brings savory chicken and luscious cheese together with a hint of sweetness. This quick and easy recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food experience, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Get ready to impress your loved ones with every mouthful!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes; drain but reserve some pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and honey; mix well to create a sauce.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg