If you’re craving a dish that brilliantly balances sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, you’re going to love this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe. Imagine tender chicken glazed in a rich honey and black pepper sauce that has just the right kick, served alongside indulgently cheesy macaroni with the perfect smooth, velvety texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table with ingredients that are simple yet bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role. From the punchy spices in the chicken glaze to the creamy cheeses in the macaroni, these essentials combine to give you a dish that’s both hearty and unforgettable. Here’s everything you’ll want close at hand before you start cooking.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, perfect for soaking up the honey pepper sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Basics that elevate the natural flavors and balance the heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For perfectly searing your chicken to golden deliciousness.
- 1/2 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spice.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Gives an umami depth and a bit of saltiness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds just the right tang to brighten the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: The star spice that provides a warm, spicy bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory undertones without overpowering the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle richness and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Just a hint of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 8 oz macaroni pasta: Classic pasta shape that holds onto the creamy cheese sauce wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates the luscious base for your cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Makes the cheese sauce smooth and silky.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides bold, tangy flavor in the macaroni cheese.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty texture that cheese lovers dream about.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh burst of color and mild herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside, about 6 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. The goal here is juicy, tender chicken that will stand up beautifully to that intoxicating honey pepper sauce. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest.
Step 2: Create the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Sauce
Using the same skillet, don’t clean it yet—those browned bits add tremendous flavor! Combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which will intensify those sweet and spicy notes. Your kitchen will start smelling absolutely amazing now.
Step 3: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce
Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet with your flavorful honey pepper sauce. Toss the chicken until every piece is glazed with that beautiful, sticky sauce. This step ensures that every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet warmth and peppery spice.
Step 4: Prepare the Macaroni Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, boil your macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to be enveloped in the luscious cheese sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta here since it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce later.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux and cook for about a minute to remove that raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly so no lumps form. Continue cooking this mixture until it thickens then stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and silky smooth. This sauce is the heart of your creamy macaroni cheese.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Mix the cooked macaroni with the luxurious cheese sauce until every piece is lavishly coated. Plate the creamy macaroni cheese alongside your honey pepper chicken, making sure to spoon any extra sauce over the chicken for that irresistible glaze. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A little bit of garnish goes a long way with this dish, both visually and flavor-wise. Fresh chopped parsley adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness and brings a lovely contrast to the sweet and spicy sauce. You might also try a sprinkle of finely sliced green onions or a light dusting of smoked paprika for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
While this meal is pretty satisfying on its own, a light side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the bold flavors wonderfully. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a fresh crunch and balance the creamy macaroni cheese. If you want something with a bit more heart, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are always a welcome addition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the chicken slices on a bed of the macaroni cheese right on individual plates, drizzling extra honey pepper sauce artistically around the edges. You can also serve the macaroni cheese in small ramekins as a side bowl, giving a beautiful layered presentation. For parties, bite-sized chicken pieces on skewers paired with mini mac and cheese cups make fun and tasty appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers make for excellent next-day meals. Store the chicken and macaroni cheese separately in airtight containers to keep the texture and flavors fresh. The chicken sauce can intensify overnight, so it might taste even better the next day once it has melded together more thoroughly.
Freezing
You can freeze both the chicken and macaroni cheese for up to three months. For best results, freeze them in separate freezer-safe containers to maintain quality. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you have a convenient ready-to-go meal that’s just as delightful as fresh.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra honey if the sauce thickened too much. The macaroni cheese heats best on the stove or in the oven at moderate temperatures to avoid drying out. Adding a little bit of milk or cream when reheating helps recover the silky creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for the macaroni cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella create a perfect balance of flavor and meltiness, you can experiment with gouda, parmesan, or even pepper jack for an extra spicy kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains flour in the cheese sauce. You can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make it gluten-free without compromising the creamy texture.
How spicy is the chicken sauce?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the black pepper and a touch of cayenne. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce or omit the cayenne. For more heat, add chili flakes or fresh chilies.
Can I prep the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the honey pepper sauce a day ahead and simply toss it with freshly cooked chicken when you’re ready. This is a great time-saver for busy nights.
What type of pasta works best for the macaroni cheese?
Traditional elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells, cavatappi, or even penne also work wonderfully as they hold the cheese sauce well.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe a try. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, offering comfort, excitement, and a bit of indulgence all on one plate. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
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Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a delightful meal combining tender, pan-seared chicken glazed in a flavorful honey pepper sauce with rich, cheesy macaroni. The dish balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Honey Pepper Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese
- 8 oz macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Honey Pepper Sauce: In the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens and becomes glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss Chicken in Sauce: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces, then return them to the skillet with the honey pepper sauce. Toss the chicken gently to coat evenly and warm through for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir until all pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy macaroni cheese and top with the honey pepper chicken pieces. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Use whole milk for a richer cheese sauce, or substitute with lower fat milk for a lighter version.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
