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Bowl of creamy mac and cheese with elbow pasta, shredded chicken, and a drizzle of honey glaze, garnished with fresh parsley.

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a sweet and spicy comfort dish that combines crispy chicken, rich cheese sauce, and a drizzle of honey for the ultimate flavor experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 820
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 2 chicken breasts sliced into strips
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 tbsp honey
Mac and Cheese
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
  • extra honey and pepper for drizzling and garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Pot

Method
 

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken strips and season with pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Drizzle honey over the cooked chicken and toss to coat. Set aside.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the cheese sauce.
  8. Top with honey pepper chicken and drizzle with extra honey. Sprinkle freshly cracked pepper on top before serving.

Notes

For a smoky kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the sauce. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests!