Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
Imagine sinking your fork into a plate of Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese, where tender, juicy chicken breasts are perfectly glazed with a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, paired lovingly with luxuriously cheesy, silky smooth macaroni. This dish takes comfort food to a whole new level, blending bold flavors and rich textures in a way that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a satisfying solo dinner, this combination promises a cozy, crave-worthy experience that’s as comforting as it is irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a crucial role in building the sweet, spicy, and creamy layers that make epper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese so unforgettable. The balance of seasoning on the chicken complements the luscious, cheesy pasta beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and full of vibrant flavor.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for absorbing the honey pepper sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden, flavorful crust.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a sharp, warming spice to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning for a balanced savory base.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives just the right kick of heat to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Highlights and balances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and contrasts the heat.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds bright acidity to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Infuses a hint of umami richness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates the base for a rich, creamy mac and cheese sauce.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
- 4 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and moisture to the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty cheese flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy, creamy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard: Enhances the cheese sauce with a subtle tangy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the cheese sauce.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a slight bite to the creamy mac and cheese.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Meanwhile, season both sides of your chicken breasts generously with the black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. This combination ensures each bite bursts with flavor, setting a savory and spicy base for your honey pepper sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Until Golden and Juicy
Once the skillet is hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. This slow cooking not only delivers that beautiful golden crust but also seals in the juices, resulting in chicken that’s tender and succulent. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—they’ll be making a triumphant return soon.
Step 3: Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce
Using the same skillet, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir the sauce ingredients thoroughly while scraping up those tasty browned bits left behind by the chicken—these add incredible flavor. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes, to develop that perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
Step 4: Glaze the Chicken with Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating each piece lavishly with the thickened honey pepper sauce. Let them simmer gently for another 5 minutes, flipping occasionally so that every side is wonderfully glazed. This step locks in the sauce’s irresistible flavors and makes the chicken glossy and inviting.
Step 5: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
While your chicken is soaking up the sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 7 to 8 minutes. This ensures the pasta stays firm enough to hold onto the creamy cheese sauce without becoming mushy.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to make a smooth roux. Cooking this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes eliminates the raw flour taste and sets the stage for a velvety sauce. Slowly pour in whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps, and keep cooking until the sauce thickens, roughly 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Once your milk mixture is thick and luscious, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and silky. For an added depth of flavor, mix in ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The result is an ultra-creamy cheese sauce that’s the perfect counterpart to the bold chicken.
Step 8: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
Drain your cooked macaroni and fold it gently into the cheese sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated with the luscious, cheesy goodness, forming the classic comfort-food side that complements the sweet and spicy chicken beautifully.
Step 9: Plate and Serve
Present the honey pepper chicken alongside a generous scoop of creamy mac and cheese on each plate. The vibrant glaze on the chicken and the rich cheese sauce on the pasta create a mouthwatering duo that’s sure to bring smiles around the table.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions brightens the plate with color and a subtle fresh flavor that lifts the rich components. A few red pepper flakes on the mac and cheese can add a little extra warmth if you love a bit more heat.
Side Dishes
While the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds balance and a refreshing contrast. Lightly roasted carrots or a crunchy coleslaw also bring a nice textural variety to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, serve the chicken whole on a large platter drizzled with extra sauce, surrounded by a big bowl of mac and cheese topped with extra melted cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Alternatively, plate individual servings in shallow bowls, layering the chicken on a bed of mac and cheese for a cozy, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover chicken and mac and cheese cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and pasta separate will help preserve their individual textures and flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the mac and cheese and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. For the mac and cheese, warming in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk will help restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and avoid clumping.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a bit more fat and juiciness, which can enhance the flavor, especially in the honey pepper sauce. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through properly.
Is there a substitute for whole milk in the mac and cheese?
Yes, you can use 2% milk or even half-and-half for a richer sauce. Just keep in mind that lower-fat options might make the sauce less creamy, so you may want to add a bit more cheese or butter to compensate.
How spicy is the Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese?
The spice level is moderate, balanced by the sweetness of honey and creaminess of the cheese sauce. You can tweak the cayenne and black pepper to your liking if you prefer it milder or hotter.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry in place of regular flour for the cheese sauce, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. Also, double-check your pasta choice to be gluten-free friendly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat chicken over low heat with a little extra sauce or broth to keep it moist. For the mac and cheese, add a splash of milk or cream and stir it gently over medium-low heat or microwave with intervals, stirring in between.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese that makes it a go-to comfort dish for any occasion. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and rich creamy flavors, it’s a meal that welcomes everyone to the table and leaves them wanting more. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen and your taste buds.
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Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with creamy mac and cheese is a delightful combination of tender, flavorful chicken glazed with a honey-apple cider vinegar sauce and rich, cheesy macaroni. The chicken’s perfect balance of sweet heat and smoky spices complements the smooth, comforting texture of classic mac and cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Honey Pepper Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Creamy Mac and Cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to build layers of flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through.
- Set Chicken Aside: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate to rest while preparing the sauce.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring well to combine and scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Glaze the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes, flipping occasionally for an even glaze.
- Cook the Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions (about 7-8 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain Macaroni: Drain the cooked macaroni well and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In a separate large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
- Add Milk: Slowly pour the whole milk into the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, cooking until the mixture thickens in about 4-5 minutes.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth for a rich cheese sauce.
- Season Cheese Sauce: Add ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to balance the flavors.
- Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce: Fold the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Plate the glazed sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken alongside the creamy mac and cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount if you prefer less or more heat in the chicken seasoning.
- Whole milk is recommended for the creamiest mac and cheese, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter option.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the mac and cheese roux.
- Make sure not to overcook the mac and cheese pasta to keep it tender but firm.
- Leftover chicken and mac and cheese can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with 1 cup mac and cheese
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: honey pepper chicken, spicy chicken recipe, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, American dinner recipes, sweet and spicy chicken, cheesy pasta
