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Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Bliss

Enjoy a cozy culinary adventure with Honey Pepper Chicken combined with creamy macaroni cheese, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Honey Pepper Chicken Ingredients
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Tender protein base, can substitute with turkey cutlets or shrimp.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with vegetable or coconut oil.
  • 1/4 cup Honey Provides natural sweetness; maple syrup is a great alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Enhances depth and saltiness; low sodium soy sauce is a lighter substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Adds needed acidity; use white vinegar if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds subtle smokiness; feel free to omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
Macaroni Cheese Ingredients
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Switch with shells or penne if desired.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Margarine works as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Try gluten-free flour for a substitute.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Half-and-half or cream can add more richness.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Gouda can also be a substitute.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Can be replaced with fontina cheese.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Omit for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder A splash of mustard could work in its place.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley For garnish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for an extra kick.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and keep it warm by covering it with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Using the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a glaze. Stir and let simmer for about 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook until fragrant. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk, whisking continuously until smooth, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until melted.
  5. Carefully fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Stir for an additional minute over low heat.
  6. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the macaroni onto each plate. Top with sliced honey-glazed chicken and garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 450mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

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