Description

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delectable comfort dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta, all elevated by a sweet honey glaze and a hint of peppery spice. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe guarantees satisfying flavors in every gooey bite. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup pure honey
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Salt to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove from heat, rest, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain while reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a separate pot, combine milk and cheddar cheese over medium heat until melted and smooth. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, sliced chicken, honey, black pepper, and cheese sauce until well combined. Transfer mixture to the greased baking dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Drizzle with extra honey before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 490
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 710mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For variety, substitute chicken with shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli. Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for an extra flavor twist. To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.