Name: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; Honey; Black pepper (freshly ground works best); Olive oil or butter; Elbow macaroni; Cheddar cheese (shredded); Milk or heavy cream; Flour (for thickening); Garlic powder; Onion powder; Salt; Optional: paprika or chili flakes for extra heat

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Tender chicken pieces glazed with a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce are layered with creamy, cheesy macaroni, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best of two worlds: the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the bold, sweet heat of honey pepper chicken. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some protein into a classic comfort food that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Honey
Black pepper (freshly ground works best)
Olive oil or butter
Elbow macaroni
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Milk or heavy cream
Flour (for thickening)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Optional: paprika or chili flakes for extra heat

Directions

Start by cooking the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
In a small bowl, mix honey and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting the amount of pepper to taste for desired heat.
Pour the honey pepper mixture over the cooked chicken and stir to coat well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to develop flavor.
In a separate saucepan, make the cheese sauce: melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk or cream while stirring until smooth and thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to taste.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then gently fold in the honey pepper chicken.
Serve immediately for best creaminess and flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal to prepare on busy nights.

Variations

I sometimes like to add sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra texture and sweetness. You can also swap cheddar for a sharper cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. For a lower-carb version, I’ve tried using cauliflower florets instead of pasta, which works surprisingly well with the honey pepper chicken.

storage/reheating

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream and gently warm on the stovetop or microwave to restore the creamy texture without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but I recommend thawing it completely and patting it dry before cooking to ensure it browns nicely and cooks evenly.

What kind of cheese works best for mac and cheese?

I prefer sharp cheddar for its balance of flavor and meltability, but a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda can make it creamier and richer.

Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on how much black pepper you add. I usually adjust it to my taste, but you can add chili flakes if you want it spicier.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the cheese sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out when reheating?

Adding a little milk or cream when reheating helps keep the sauce creamy and prevents the dish from drying out.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those dishes that brings comfort and excitement together in every bite. I love how the sweet and spicy chicken elevates the classic mac and cheese into something special but still simple to make. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy solo meal, it’s always a hit in my kitchen.

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese