Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese

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When tender bites of honey-glazed chicken collide with rich, creamy macaroni and cheese, you get a dish that feels like a comforting hug with a bold kick. The honey pepper glaze brings the perfect balance of sweet heat, coating juicy chicken pieces that rest on a bed of velvety, cheesy pasta. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights exciting and weekends even more indulgent.

This recipe is perfect for when you want something hearty yet thrilling—a fusion of Southern soul food and modern comfort. The spicy kick from cracked black pepper and chili flakes plays beautifully with the sticky sweetness of honey, while the mac and cheese delivers a luxurious contrast with its buttery smoothness. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy date night at home.

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Ingredients for Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Salt to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Mac & Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and a few cracks of black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear the pieces for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Lower the heat and pour in the remaining marinade. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and keep warm.

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Step 3: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, ground mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is silky.

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Step 5: Combine the Mac & Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat every piece in that rich, creamy goodness. Adjust seasoning if needed.

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Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the mac & cheese into serving bowls. Top generously with the honey pepper chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra black pepper if desired. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 710 kcal per serving
• Protein: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fat: 37g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 780mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts also work well if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I make it less spicy?

Absolutely. Just reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to lower the heat while keeping the sweet and savory flavor.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Also, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

What cheese combinations can I use?

Try mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Fontina for a different flavor profile in the mac & cheese.

How can I add vegetables to this dish?

Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed bell peppers into the mac & cheese for added nutrition and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components ahead and store them separately. Reheat and assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I make it creamier?

Use full-fat milk and cream, and don’t skip the roux step (butter and flour mixture), which helps thicken and smooth out the sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Just reduce the spice level. Kids tend to love the sweet glaze and creamy pasta.

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