Description
Indulge in the comforting delight of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, a dish that perfectly marries sweet and spicy flavors. This creamy pasta is enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce and features tender chicken pieces glazed in a honey-pepper mix. Each bite delivers an exquisite balance of taste, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. The simplicity of this recipe allows for easy customization; add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your palate. Perfectly warm and satisfying, this irresistible mac and cheese is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup high-quality honey
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- 3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cook until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side), then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- 4. In the same skillet, lower heat and add heavy cream. Stir in cheese and garlic powder until melted.
- 5. Mix honey and black pepper into the sauce, then combine with chicken and pasta until well coated.
- 6. Serve warm; drizzle with additional honey if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg