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–+ servings

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

A delightful twist on the classic comfort food, this recipe combines tender chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of sweetness from honey with a touch of heat from pepper flakes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package directions until al dente.
Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Seasoned with salt and pepper.
Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing chicken.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Used for creating the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Use freshly shredded for best results.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Use freshly shredded for best results.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Garnish
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken pieces until fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
  3. Add honey and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
  1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  2. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  3. Stir in garlic powder and onion powder.
  4. Add mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and melted.
Assembly
  1. Add cooked pasta and stir to coat with the cheese sauce.
  2. Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken pieces.
  3. Transfer everything into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese if desired, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.
  4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creaminess. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Try adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

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