Description

Craving something comforting, cheesy, and just a little spicy? This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is the perfect fusion of crispy chicken tenders, a rich honey pepper glaze, and ultra-creamy mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate quick dinner idea or comfort food recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas or indulgent food ideas to please a crowd, this dish brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table—great for cozy nights or weekend gatherings!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 pound elbow macaroni

2 chicken breasts (or tenders), sliced

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or panko

1/3 cup honey

1–2 teaspoons coarse black pepper

4 tablespoons butter (divided)

1 1/2 cups milk or heavy cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Slice chicken into strips. Prepare a dredging station with seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.

3. Dip chicken in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Set aside.

4. In a skillet, heat oil and fry chicken strips for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

5. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter, add honey and black pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.

6. In another saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly add milk, stir until thickened.

7. Add cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth.

8. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until coated.

9. Plate mac and cheese. Top with crispy chicken. Drizzle with honey pepper glaze. Garnish with herbs if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, swap chicken with crispy cauliflower or tofu.

Reheat mac with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop & Frying
Cuisine: American Comfort

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 690
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 115mg