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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

Indulge in the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, a comforting twist on a classic weekend dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pcs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Turkey or plant-based chicken can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Substitute with coconut oil or butter.
  • 1 tsp Salt Kosher or sea salt are great alternatives.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked offers the best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Honey Maple syrup can be a vegan substitute.
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste or omit for less spice.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Margarine or dairy-free butter can be used.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch serves as a gluten-free substitute.
  • 2 cups Milk Plant-based milk can make it dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Additional milk or coconut cream can be used.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Aged Gouda or dairy-free cheddar are acceptable.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can substitute.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onion can also be used.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Optional for freshness and color.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Return the skillet to low heat, stir in 1/4 cup of honey and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the cooked chicken, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream, whisking to create a smooth sauce.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture, adding 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder.
  6. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every piece. Mix in the chopped chicken, distributing it evenly.
  7. Preheat your oven to broil and transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to explore different cheeses for unique flavors. Incorporate vegetables for added nutrition.

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