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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, golden-fried chicken coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze with rich, creamy macaroni and cheese. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes this dish a restaurant-worthy meal that’s easy to make at home. Serve it for dinner, a cozy weekend treat, or a crowd-pleasing favorite at gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale

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)
  • 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 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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
  4. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in flour, coating evenly.
  5. Fry in batches for 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 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.

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 form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
  4. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and mix until fully coated in the 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.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

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Find it online: https://ladysavor.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese/