Description
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight combines tender chicken with a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze, creamy cheese sauce, and pasta for a comforting, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to your preference)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove from the skillet, and once cooled slightly, slice into strips or cubes.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the honey and black pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 1-2 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the honey pepper glaze. Set aside.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder and onion powder, then stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream begins to simmer.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Then, gently fold in the honey pepper chicken mixture and toss until everything is well combined.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve the dish hot.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To make ahead, prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cheese or let the sauce simmer longer.
- Feel free to customize the pasta shape or add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
