Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
✔ 12 oz (340g) pasta – elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or your favorite shape
✔ 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
✔ 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
✔ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for extra depth of flavor
✔ 1 cup heavy cream – for that rich, velvety texture
✔ 1 tbsp butter – adds a smooth, creamy touch
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
✔ 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
✔ 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken
✔ 2 tbsp honey – brings the perfect sweetness
✔ 1 tsp black pepper – adds warmth and a hint of spice
✔ 1 tsp smoked paprika – for a slightly smoky, savory depth
✔ 1 tsp garlic powder – because garlic makes everything better
✔ 1/2 tsp onion powder – enhances the overall flavor
✔ 1/2 tsp salt – to bring out all the flavors
For Garnish:
✔ 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – adds a pop of color and freshness

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente (firm to the bite).
3️⃣ Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse the pasta! (Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles.)
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Pepper Chicken
1️⃣ While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3️⃣ Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4️⃣ Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
1️⃣ In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over low heat.
2️⃣ Stir in the 2 tbsp of honey and let it heat up until it starts to bubble gently.
3️⃣ Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the honey-pepper glaze until it’s fully coated.
4️⃣ Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes so the glaze slightly thickens and caramelizes the chicken.
5️⃣ Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
1️⃣ In a separate saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over low heat. Do not let it boil!
2️⃣ Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into a smooth and creamy sauce.
3️⃣ Add 1 tbsp of butter to enhance the richness.
4️⃣ Stir well until the sauce becomes thick and velvety. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
5️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine Everything
1️⃣ Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until all the noodles are coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness.
2️⃣ Transfer the mac and cheese to a large serving dish or individual bowls.
3️⃣ Top with the honey pepper chicken, making sure to drizzle any extra glaze over the dish.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
1️⃣ Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
2️⃣ Serve immediately while everything is warm, gooey, and irresistibly creamy!