Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion dish that brings together creamy mac and cheese with crispy honey-pepper glazed chicken. This comforting and indulgent meal is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something extra special. The blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining two beloved dishes into one. The crispy, sweet, and slightly spicy honey-pepper chicken is served over rich and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish is great for entertaining guests, as it offers a little something for everyone, from creamy cheese lovers to fans of sweet and spicy flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Pepper Sauce

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until heated through and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated.
5. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
8. Combine Mac and Cheese: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
9. Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into serving bowls and top with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Cook Notes & Tips

• Chicken Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps to tenderize it and adds flavor. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
• Cheese Blend: Feel free to use a mix of your favorite cheeses for the mac and cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby work well in this dish.
• Baking Option: If you prefer baking the chicken instead of frying, you can bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.

Variations

• Spicy Honey Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey pepper sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with crispy fried tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits to the mac and cheese for added smoky flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. The chicken is best when freshly fried, but you can reheat it in the oven to maintain some crispiness.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

3. Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought honey pepper sauce or your favorite glaze to coat the chicken.

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the crispy, sweet, and spicy chicken. This comforting meal is sure to be a hit with the whole family, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or just a cozy night in, this dish is bound to impress.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of honey pepper chicken and creamy mac and cheese!

Happy Cooking!