Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese recipe. This dish is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a must-try for mac and cheese lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of honey, black pepper, and cheddar cheese creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
- With simple ingredients and quick prep time, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.
- This mac and cheese is ideal for meal prep, as it reheats well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Elbow macaroni adds a classic touch to this dish, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a lean protein option, but feel free to substitute with cooked shredded chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Olive oil, honey, black pepper, salt, cheddar cheese, milk, all-purpose flour, and breadcrumbs are essential for creating the creamy and flavorful sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the chicken breasts in olive oil until fully cooked. Remove from heat and shred the chicken.
- In the same skillet, combine honey, black pepper, salt, cheddar cheese, milk, and flour to create a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the sauce, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese!
Helpful Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding some diced jalapenos or cooked bacon to the dish.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Be sure to season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or a cold beer would complement the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, place the mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a unique twist. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself to the creamy goodness of our honey pepper chicken mac and cheese recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!
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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese with this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken version. Tender chicken seasoned with honey and pepper is mixed with cheesy macaroni for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil water, add macaroni, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with honey, pepper, and salt. Cook in olive oil until no longer pink. Slice into strips.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt cheese with milk and flour until smooth.
- Combine: Mix macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce. Pour into a baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of honey and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg