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jhessica

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese: A Must-Try Recipe!

A delicious and creamy mac and cheese dish topped with honey pepper chicken, perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the mixture.
  6. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with sliced honey pepper chicken.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10g

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or jalapeños to the mac and cheese.
  • Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

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