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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting, flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring tender chicken glazed with a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce layered with creamy, cheesy macaroni.

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

Instructions

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

Notes

  • Use freshly ground black pepper for best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of honey and pepper to control sweetness and heat.
  • Optional paprika or chili flakes can add extra heat.
  • For gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
  • When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
  • Variations include adding sautéed bell peppers or onions, or swapping cheddar for gouda or pepper jack cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese/