Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts comforting and bold, this Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is your answer. It combines tender chicken coated in a sweet-spicy honey pepper sauce with rich, cheesy macaroni for a meal that’s pure indulgence. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe brings big flavors with simple ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone reach for seconds.

I’ve always loved how mac and cheese can be transformed with a few creative twists, and this recipe does just that. The balance of sweet honey, spicy pepper, and creamy cheese is irresistible. Let’s explore why this dish is a favorite and how you can make it at home!

Why People Love This Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish is a flavor explosion, blending sweet, spicy, and creamy elements. The honey pepper chicken adds a unique kick to classic mac and cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare. The chicken and sauce cook together, infusing the dish with flavor. Cleanup is a breeze, which busy cooks love.

The recipe is versatile and customizable. Adjust the spice level or cheese blend to suit your taste. It adapts to any preference effortlessly.

It’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for feeding a crowd. Leftovers reheat well, making it great for meal prep. Everyone asks for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, gather these ingredients. This recipe serves 4-6 people. Most items are pantry staples or easy to find.

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Tools Required

You don’t need fancy equipment for this recipe. Basic kitchen tools will get the job done. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)

Preparation Tips for Success

A few simple tips can elevate your Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. These ensure the best flavor and texture. Keep them in mind as you cook.

• Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness. It will absorb some sauce while baking or simmering. Drain it promptly to stop cooking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can make it grainy. Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully.
• Adjust the hot sauce to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed. The honey balances the heat nicely.
• Taste the sauce before combining. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure the flavors pop. The chicken and cheese add richness, so season carefully.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

In the same skillet, add the honey, hot sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a clean large skillet or saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.

Step 7: Add the Chicken

Fold the honey pepper chicken into the mac and cheese, ensuring even distribution. Cook for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Nutritional Information

This table provides approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings). Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Note: Using low-fat milk or less cheese can reduce fat and calorie content.

Serving Suggestions

Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a complete meal, but sides can make it even better. Here are some ideas to complement the dish:

1. Green Salad: Serve with a simple salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the dish.
2. Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted broccoli or asparagus for a nutritious side. They complement the bold flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness. It’s a great contrast to the spicy chicken.
5. Extra Heat: Offer extra hot sauce or chili flakes on the side. It’s perfect for spice enthusiasts.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish stores well, making it great for leftovers. Follow these tips to keep it fresh. You’ll enjoy it just as much later.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing.
• Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream. Stir frequently to restore creaminess.
• Microwave Option: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Add a bit of liquid to prevent drying out.

Customizing Your Mac and Cheese

This recipe is easy to tweak to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Experiment to make it your own. Here are some customization ideas:

• Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor. A mix of cheeses adds depth to the sauce.
• Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp or crispy bacon. Both pair well with the honey pepper sauce.
• Spice Level: Increase hot sauce or add cayenne for more heat. For milder flavor, reduce the hot sauce and pepper.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.

For tips on making a perfect roux for your cheese sauce, check out this guide on basic cooking techniques. It’s a great resource for beginners.

Summary

Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a bold, comforting dish that elevates classic mac and cheese with sweet-spicy chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce. This one-pan recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice or cheese to your liking.

Whether paired with a fresh salad or garlic bread, this dish is sure to impress. Make a batch, save some for leftovers, and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors anytime. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells works well. Just cook it al dente.

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce the hot sauce and black pepper, or skip the hot sauce entirely.

Is there a vegetarian version?
Swap chicken for plant-based protein or extra veggies like mushrooms. Use vegetable broth if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal, but pepper jack or gouda add great flavor. Shred your own for best results.

Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a bold, comforting dish that combines sweet-spicy honey pepper chicken with rich, cheesy macaroni. This one-pan meal is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, serving 4-6 people. The balance of sweet honey, spicy pepper, and creamy cheese makes it irresistible. It’s easy to customize with different cheeses or spice levels. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni or any short pasta
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce adjust to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the honey, hot sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

• In a clean large skillet or saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

• Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.

Step 7: Add the Chicken

• Fold the honey pepper chicken into the mac and cheese, ensuring even distribution. Cook for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

• Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

When making Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, cook pasta al dente to prevent a mushy texture. Use freshly shredded cheese for a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level, and stir frequently when reheating to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Keyword Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, Hot and Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese