Name: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt (to taste); ½ cup honey; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 8 to 12 ounces elbow macaroni or similar pasta; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional); Salt and black pepper (to taste); Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

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Experience the perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac. Tender chicken bites are glazed in a luscious honey and black pepper sauce, delivering a delightful kick balanced by the creamy, cheesy macaroni beneath. This dish is a comforting classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing family meal, this recipe offers incredible taste with simple steps and familiar ingredients. It’s a delicious way to transform ordinary pantry staples into something memorable and crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines sweet and spicy flavors for a balanced, bold taste.
Uses simple pantry ingredients for an easy, accessible meal.
Creamy macaroni cheese complements tender, flavorful chicken perfectly.
Quick to prepare yet feels indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender chicken cut into bite-size pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect sauce absorption.
Olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base to brown and sear the chicken evenly without sticking.
Salt: Enhances natural flavors of chicken and seasoning throughout the dish.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the peppery heat in the sauce.
Soy sauce: Contributes umami depth and savory richness to the honey pepper glaze.
Apple cider vinegar: Brings mild acidity to brighten and balance the sweetness and spice.
Black pepper: Offers spicy heat and warm aroma essential to the signature flavor.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory backbone without overpowering.
Onion powder: Complements garlic to create depth and complexity in seasoning.
Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds an extra spicy kick for those who prefer heat.
Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce beautifully for creamy bites.
Unsalted butter: Key for making the roux, imparting richness to the cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Combines with butter to thicken the cheese sauce smoothly.
Milk: Whole milk preferred for creaminess and smooth texture in the sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides intense cheesy flavor and melts into a creamy base.
Mozzarella cheese (optional): Adds extra melty, stretchy texture for indulgent creaminess.
Black pepper and salt: To season the cheese sauce perfectly to taste.
Fresh parsley or green onions (optional): Adds fresh herbal brightness and color as garnish.

Instructions

Heat and Prepare the Chicken: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a hot surface for searing. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper so they cook evenly and develop flavor. Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 7 minutes, giving the chicken a nice crust and juicy interior.
Mix and Simmer the Honey Pepper Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you want extra heat. Pour this flavorful sauce over the cooked chicken, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken pieces beautifully, locking in all the vibrant tastes.
Cook the Macaroni Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta well to avoid excess water diluting the cheese sauce later, and set aside for combining.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: Using the pot you cooked the pasta in, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux, which is essential for thickening. Slowly whisk in milk a little at a time, ensuring the mixture turns smooth and thickens slightly. Add shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste for a balanced finish.
Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Return the drained macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta with the rich, velvety sauce. This step ensures each bite is packed with creamy cheesy goodness and creates the perfect base for the chicken topping.
Assemble and Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls or plates, then top generously with the honey pepper glazed chicken pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired, adding a pop of color and a fresh hint to the rich dish. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.

You Must Know

Adjust the amount of black pepper and optional cayenne to suit your heat preference, making this dish mild or spicy as you like.
Different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda can be substituted for unique flavor profiles and richness.
For meal prep, cook the chicken ahead and gently reheat before serving to save time on busy days.
Try swapping chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option while keeping the same delicious sauce.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs well with a crisp green side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance. A light white wine or iced tea can enhance the sweet and peppery flavors perfectly.

Professional Tips

For a deeper sauce flavor, caramelize the chicken fully before adding the honey pepper sauce to develop rich, roasted notes.
Use whole milk or even half-and-half in the cheese sauce for extra creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel.
Let the cheese sauce simmer gently rather than boil to avoid curdling and ensure smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Adjust cooking time as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
Is there a substitute for elbow macaroni?: Any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or rotini can be used. Choose one that holds cheese sauce well for best results.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?: Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
How spicy is this dish?: The heat comes mainly from black pepper and optional cayenne. Adjust amounts to your preference or omit cayenne for mild flavor.
Can I prepare components ahead of time?: Absolutely, cook the chicken and pasta separately, then assemble with freshly made cheese sauce when ready to serve for convenience.
What can I serve with this meal?: Serve alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to complement the rich, creamy main dish.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?: Yes, it holds up well when refrigerated and reheated gently. Keep components separate to maintain best texture.