Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy, cheesy macaroni and crispy, flavorful chicken. This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese takes comfort food to the next level with a delicious balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The golden, crispy chicken bites are coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze, perfectly complementing the rich, velvety mac and cheese. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or an indulgent treat, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Mac and cheese is already a beloved classic, but adding crispy honey pepper chicken transforms it into an irresistible dish. The contrast of textures and flavors—crispy, sweet, and peppery chicken paired with smooth, cheesy pasta—creates a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

To create this indulgent dish, you’ll need a combination of crispy chicken, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a sweet yet spicy honey pepper glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Pepper Glaze:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Making this dish is a step-by-step process, but the end result is well worth it. You’ll start by preparing the crispy chicken, then move on to the creamy mac and cheese before finishing with the flavorful honey pepper glaze.

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In one bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. In another bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge it in flour, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the honey, black pepper, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and toss the crispy chicken in the glaze until well coated.

Step 3: Cook the Mac and Cheese

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat in the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls or a large dish.
2. Top with the honey pepper glazed chicken pieces.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Each Component

The cooking time for each part of this dish varies depending on the method used. Here’s a breakdown to ensure everything comes out perfectly:

• Frying the Chicken – Each batch should fry for about 4-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Simmering the Honey Pepper Glaze – Cook the glaze for 2-3 minutes on medium heat until slightly thickened. Avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
• Boiling the Pasta – Depending on the type of pasta, cooking time is around 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain immediately to prevent overcooking.
• Making the Cheese Sauce – The cheese sauce comes together in about 5-7 minutes once the roux is formed and the milk is added. Be sure to stir constantly for a smooth consistency.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish stores well and can be enjoyed later! Follow these storage methods for the best results:

Refrigerator Storage:

• Store any leftover mac and cheese and chicken separately in airtight containers.
• Mac and cheese can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• The crispy chicken should be consumed within 2 days for the best texture.

Freezing Instructions:

• Mac and Cheese: Can be frozen for up to 1 month in an airtight container. Reheat by thawing overnight in the fridge and warming on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
• Fried Chicken: It’s best eaten fresh, but if needed, freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until crisp.

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Tips for Perfect Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

To make this dish even better, here are some expert tips:

• Double-Coat the Chicken – For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour twice before frying.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate your cheese for the best results.
• Keep the Chicken Crispy – Toss the chicken in the honey pepper glaze right before serving to maintain its crispiness.
• Adjust the Heat – If you prefer a spicier glaze, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Try Different Cheese Combinations – Experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheddar for a unique flavor.

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