A simple, creamy pasta dish with sweet honey and a peppery chicken glaze.
introduction
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight mixes soft macaroni, melted cheddar, and bite-sized chicken with a sweet pepper glaze. It feels like comfort food and cooks fast. If you enjoy other rich pasta dishes, try the easy and smoky BBQ chicken mac and cheese for another tasty idea.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a warm, filling meal with a mix of sweet and peppery flavors. It uses common pantry items and cooks in one or two pans. The honey makes the chicken taste sweet and the black pepper adds a good kick. If you like honey-pepper flavors in other dishes, see this honey lemon and pepper fried chicken wings for more ideas.
how to make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
Follow the steps below. The cheese sauce stays smooth and the chicken gets a shiny honey glaze. You can use the stovetop only or finish under the broiler for a crisp top. For another creamy chicken pasta idea, check this cowboy butter chicken pasta which shares simple techniques.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add heavy cream. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni, and season with salt to taste.
- In another skillet, cook the diced chicken until browned. Add honey and black pepper, cooking until the chicken is glazed and cooked through.
- Combine the honey-glazed chicken with the mac and cheese mixture. If desired, top with breadcrumbs and broil until golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
Serve this dish hot from the pan. Add a light green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. For a homey plate, spoon the mac into bowls and place extra honey on the side for those who like more sweetness. You may also try it with a soft bread roll or roasted vegetables. For a creamy chicken side idea, see this creamy smothered chicken and rice.
how to store Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
Let the dish cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess. You can freeze for up to 2 months, but the texture may change; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
- Do not overcook the macaroni. Cook to al dente so it holds up after mixing with sauce.
- Use fresh grated cheddar for best melt and flavor.
- Cook chicken pieces until just done, then add honey so they do not dry out.
- Taste the sauce and add salt slowly. The cheese and chicken may already add salt.
- If you like a crunchy top, add breadcrumbs and broil for a few minutes.
variation (if any)
- Swap cheddar for a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier taste.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky note.
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken to save time.
- Stir in peas or spinach for extra veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes. Use any small pasta like shells, penne, or cavatappi. Cook it al dente.
Q: Is there a non-dairy option?
A: You can try a non-dairy cream and vegan cheese, but the texture will differ from the original.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: It is mildly spicy from the black pepper. Add more pepper for a stronger kick.
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make the dish, cool it, and reheat before serving. Add a little cream when reheating.
Conclusion
This recipe brings together creamy cheese, sweet honey, and peppery chicken for a simple weeknight meal. For another home-style take on honey pepper chicken mac, see this Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. If you want a stovetop skillet method and extra tips, this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese stovetop recipe offers a clear guide.
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz macaroni Cook to al dente
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Fresh grated for best melt
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with non-dairy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter For melting with cream
Chicken Glaze
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced Cook until browned
- 1/4 cup honey Adds sweetness to the dish
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust for spice preference
- to taste Salt Add slowly, taste as you go
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs For a crunchy top, optional
- to taste Fresh parsley For garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add heavy cream. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni, and season with salt to taste.
Cook Chicken
- In another skillet, cook the diced chicken until browned.
- Add honey and black pepper, cooking until the chicken is glazed and cooked through.
Combine and Serve
- Combine the honey-glazed chicken with the mac and cheese mixture.
- If desired, top with breadcrumbs and broil until golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
