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Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese

  • Author: Sophia Langley
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Looking for a dish that brings bold flavor and total comfort? This Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac & Cheese is a knockout dinner idea that’s perfect for weeknight meals or casual entertaining. Juicy, caramelized chicken coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze rests on a bed of ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese, creating the ultimate mashup of sweet, spicy, and savory. It’s an easy recipe packed with bold flavor, making it a winning option for quick dinners, food ideas that satisfy picky eaters, or cozy nights in. Whether you’re after a quick dinner idea, hearty comfort food, or just love a good mac & cheese twist, this one hits the spot.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed

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)

Fresh cracked black pepper to taste

Salt to taste

Chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Mac & Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, and spices. Toss in the chicken and let marinate for 20–60 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Add remaining marinade and simmer until thickened.
  3. Boil Pasta: Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Once thickened, stir in cheeses and seasoning.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Assemble the Dish: Serve mac & cheese in bowls topped with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with parsley and extra pepper if desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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Find it online: https://tastebursts.com/sweet-spicy-honey-pepper-chicken-with-creamy-mac-cheese/