Description
Comfort meets excitement in this honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, blending southern hospitality with gourmet flair. Creamy pasta, golden-crusted chicken, and sweet-spicy notes promise a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp black pepper
Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
Pasta and Additional Ingredients:
- 16 oz (450 g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring an even coating across the entire surface.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Drizzle honey over cooked chicken, allowing it to caramelize and create a glossy, sweet-spicy glaze. Remove chicken and let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook macaroni until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, creating a smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- Slowly incorporate shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and fully melted.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Gently mix sliced honey-glazed chicken into the mac and cheese, distributing protein throughout the dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and briefly broil for 2-3 minutes until the surface turns golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and easier slicing.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and better spice adherence.
- Select a sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor depth and creamy texture in the sauce.
- Customize the dish by using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg