Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese! The tender, juicy chicken breasts are glazed in a tangy, sweet sauce with just the right amount of heat. Paired with the creamy, cheesy macaroni, this dish provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The dish is versatile, too – you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, making it as mild or fiery as you like. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: 2

• Salt and pepper: to taste

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

• Honey: ½ cup

• Soy sauce: ¼ cup

• Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon

• Ground black pepper: 1 teaspoon

• Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon

• Onion powder: ½ teaspoon

• Ground cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

• Macaroni pasta: 8 ounces

• Butter: 2 tablespoons

• All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons

• Milk: 2 cups

• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 2 cups

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 1 cup

• Salt and pepper: to taste

• Parsley, chopped: for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Combine: Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat well.

4. Cook Pasta: In a separate pot, boil the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and thick. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

7. Serve: Plate the creamy macaroni cheese and top with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the macaroni, such as gouda, fontina, or a bit of blue cheese for added depth of flavor.

• Spicy Adjustments: Adjust the level of heat in the honey pepper chicken by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce to the marinade for extra spice.

• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free pasta and ensure your soy sauce is also gluten-free.

• Marinated Chicken: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the sauce for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the macaroni cheese in the microwave or on the stove. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of milk to keep the cheese sauce creamy. Reheat the chicken separately in a skillet or microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative for chicken breasts. They will provide a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy when cooked.

2. Is there a way to make the macaroni cheese spicier?

Yes, you can add a pinch more cayenne pepper or even a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce to make it spicier.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare both the chicken and macaroni cheese in advance. Simply reheat them before serving.

4. What other side dishes would go well with this recipe?

A refreshing cucumber salad or steamed vegetables would complement this dish beautifully, balancing out the richness of the macaroni cheese.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and macaroni cheese separately. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

6. Can I use pre-shredded cheese for the macaroni cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

7. Can I make this dish with a different pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, shells, or rigatoni, depending on your preference.

8. How do I adjust the sweetness of the honey pepper chicken?

To adjust the sweetness, reduce or increase the amount of honey used in the sauce according to your taste.

9. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your soy sauce is gluten-free, you can easily make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

10. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives to apple cider vinegar. Each will provide a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a flavorful and comforting dish that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. With its rich, cheesy pasta and tender, flavorful chicken, this meal is sure to become a favorite. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures.