Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy, golden fried chicken bites coated in a sweet and spicy honey-pepper glaze. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or whenever you crave something indulgent and hearty, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

What Is Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

This dish takes classic mac and cheese to the next level by topping it with crispy breaded chicken pieces drizzled with honey and cracked black pepper. The result is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or potlucks.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different cheeses or spices.
• Restaurant-Worthy: Feels like an elevated dish yet is easy to make at home.
• Comfort Food Classic: Combines two beloved favorites—mac and cheese and fried chicken.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups (240g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups (475ml) milk
• 3 tbsp (42g) butter
• 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Pepper Glaze:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 2 tsp cracked black pepper

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Macaroni

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Making the Fried Chicken

1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each piece in flour, dip into the beaten egg, and coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden and cooked through (about 3–4 minutes per side).
5. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, and cook until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish

1. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a large serving bowl.

Adding the Honey Pepper Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix honey with cracked black pepper.
2. Drizzle the honey pepper glaze over the fried chicken pieces.
3. Place the glazed chicken bites on top of the mac and cheese.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh, vibrant touch.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter contrast.
• Serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Enjoy with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea to balance the richness.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the mac and cheese (without the chicken) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Store fried chicken separately to maintain its crispiness. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Healthier Option: Use baked chicken instead of fried.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with Gruyere, Gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the cheese sauce and macaroni in advance. Reheat and combine when ready to serve. Fry the chicken fresh for best results.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely. Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked tenders for a quicker version.

Q: What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy?
A: Serve the chicken immediately after frying or reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore crispiness.

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a deliciously indulgent dish that’s sure to impress. Combining crispy honey-drizzled chicken with rich, creamy mac and cheese creates a meal perfect for any occasion. Try it out and share your experience with family and friends!

Print