Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy with our Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with creamy Mac and Cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a versatile option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of honey, black pepper, and garlic creates a flavorful and unique taste profile.
- With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy individuals looking for a satisfying meal.
- The leftovers of this dish are great for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provide a lean protein base for the dish.
- Fresh garlic, minced: Adds a bold and aromatic flavor to the chicken.
- Pure honey: Sweetens the dish and balances out the spiciness.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a kick of heat to the chicken.
- Unsalted butter: Used for both the chicken and cheese sauce.
- Elbow macaroni: Provides the classic base for the Mac and Cheese.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture to the cheese sauce.
- Whole milk: Creates a smooth and velvety consistency for the Mac and Cheese.
- Salt to taste: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, cook the chicken with garlic, honey, and black pepper until fully cooked.
- In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, then add shredded cheddar cheese.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and serve alongside the Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken.
Helpful Tips:
- For added heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken before serving.
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Leftover Mac and Cheese can be reheated with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey, garlic, and black pepper mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a mix of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a more complex cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For drinks, try a refreshing lemonade or a bold red wine to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven or microwave and reheat the Mac and Cheese on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. - Can I use a different type of pasta for the Mac and Cheese?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape for this dish. - How can I make the cheese sauce creamier?
Increase the amount of milk or add a dollop of cream cheese to achieve a creamier consistency. - Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately and assemble them just before serving for a fresher taste.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal with our Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac and Cheese. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting appeal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your culinary adventures with us!
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Irresistible Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with 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 the irresistible combination of spicy honey pepper chicken served with creamy mac and cheese. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add honey and black pepper, then cook until the mixture thickens. Brush the sauce over the chicken and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. In a saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter, add milk, and gradually stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt.
- Serve the honey pepper chicken with mac and cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of black pepper.
- Feel free to add diced jalapeños for an extra kick in the mac and cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 600 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg