Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese that Comforts

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, transforming a classic favorite into a family staple.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • colander
  • small bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook until al dente

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Diced for even cooking
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper To season the chicken

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce

  • ¼ cup honey Adds sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Provides umami flavor
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For a subtle kick

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Base for roux
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour Thickens the sauce
  • 2 cups milk For creamy texture
  • 1 cup heavy cream Adds richness
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese Classic cheesy flavor
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Offers nutty depth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds sweetness

Instructions
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

  • Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Sauté diced chicken in olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl, and pour over the chicken.
  • Melt butter in the pot, add flour, and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking until mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted, seasoning with garlic and onion powder, plus salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine mac and cheese with cheese sauce until pasta is evenly coated.
  • Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken until evenly distributed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For the best texture, cook pasta al dente. Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg
Keyword cheesy pasta, Comfort Food, Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly recipe, Quick Meals
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!