Are you craving the ultimate comfort food? This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a cheesy, sweet, and spicy delight that will take your taste buds on a ride! Whether you’re making a cozy dinner or looking for a viral-worthy dish to impress your family, this easy mac and cheese recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💛
✅ Rich & Creamy – A velvety cheese sauce that coats every bite.
✅ Sweet & Spicy – The honey pepper chicken adds the perfect kick.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes!
✅ Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A meal that everyone will love!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
✔ 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta 🍝
✔ 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
✔ 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded 🧀
✔ 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
✔ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
✔ 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗
✔ 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
✔ 1 tbsp butter 🧈
✔ 2 tbsp honey 🍯
✔ 1 tsp black pepper 🌶️
✔ 1 tsp paprika 🌶️
✔ 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
✔ 1/2 tsp onion powder 🧅
✔ 1/2 tsp salt 🧂
For Garnish:
✔ 1 tbsp chopped parsley 🌿
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season & Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
3️⃣ Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in honey until bubbling. Add the chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat. Set aside.
4️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan over low heat, pour in heavy cream and gradually whisk in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Combine & Serve
Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Transfer to a serving dish, top with the honey pepper chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
⏳ Cooking Time & Nutrition
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
🥄 Servings: 4
🔥 Calories: ~710 kcal per serving
🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
✔ Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
✔ Adjust Spice Levels – Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper!
✔ Make it Extra Creamy – Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
🔥 Trending Comfort Food Recipe – Try It Today!
This honey pepper mac and cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even a cozy date night. The balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors will leave you wanting more!
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