Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is that craveable comfort food you make when only gooey cheese and crispy chicken will satisfy. The sweet spicy glaze on the chicken adds a bold punch to the creamy mac and cheese for a dinner that wins over everyone at the table every single time.

I tested this one for a cozy Sunday night and the combo of honey glaze with classic mac had my whole family sneaking extra bites before I could even sit down

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: gives that familiar shape and chewy bite look for sturdy noodles that hold onto the sauce well
• Butter: brings richness to the roux base choose real butter for the deepest flavor
• All purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce sift before using to avoid lumps
• Whole milk and heavy cream: for a luscious velvety texture go for fresh dairy for the silkiest finish
• Shredded cheddar cheese: delivers bold cheddar tang sharp varieties melt beautifully
• Mozzarella cheese: adds extra creaminess pre shred or use block and grate fresh for best melt
• Garlic powder and onion powder: round out the flavor foundation use fresh open jars for maximum aroma
• Salt and pepper: amplify all the flavors kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper give the best pop
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: crisp up perfectly try to select similar sized pieces for even cooking
• Buttermilk: tenderizes the chicken soak at least 20 minutes but longer is even juicier
• Paprika: in the dredge mix adds earthy color and subtle warmth
• Vegetable oil: is best for frying with a neutral taste lots of major brands work
• Honey: for a thick caramelized glaze look for a deep golden honey for best flavor
• Soy sauce: brings umami savoriness low sodium versions keep balance in the glaze
• Cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes: let you adjust the heat to your liking use fresh cracked for maximum bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Cut chicken into bite sized chunks then submerge in buttermilk for at least twenty minutes to start tenderizing and prepping for crispiness

Make the Seasoned Flour:

Combine flour paprika salt and black pepper in a shallow bowl whisk thoroughly to blend so every bite comes out flavorful

Fry the Chicken:

Heat your oil in a heavy skillet over medium checking with a drop of flour for light sizzle then dredge each chicken piece in flour shaking well for a thin even coating fry in small batches for about four minutes each side until deeply golden and extra crispy drain on a towel lined plate for crunch

Create the Honey Pepper Glaze:

In a small saucepan stir together honey soy sauce cracked black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes simmer gently for two to three minutes until thickened and aromatic toss your fried chicken pieces through this sticky glaze right before serving for maximum shine

Prepare the Mac and Cheese:

Boil elbows in salted water until just al dente drain and reserve a splash of cooking water in case you need to loosen the sauce later

Build the Cheese Sauce:

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium then whisk in flour to make the roux stir constantly for one to two minutes to cook off raw flour taste then slowly whisk in milk and cream for a lump free base lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella blending until fully melted and dreamy mix in garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper to taste

Bring it All Together:

Fold drained pasta into the cheese sauce mixing until every shell is coated and glossy gently spoon into bowls or a warm baking dish

Top and Serve:

Nestle honey pepper chicken right on top of the creamy noodles garnish with chopped parsley or extra cracked pepper serve hot for melty cheesy perfection

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My favorite ingredient in this recipe is always the local honey I use for the glaze It makes the chicken shine and adds something special especially when I pour it slow and watch it coat those crispy pieces My kids always hover close by the stove hoping for an early taste and it always brings everyone together

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat add a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy before microwaving or gently warming on the stove The chicken will stay crisp if kept separate until serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cheddar for a blend of Gruyere or pepper jack for extra flavor If you are out of buttermilk use milk with a dash of lemon juice as a quick substitute Gluten free flour works well for dredging the chicken

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty mac and cheese with a simple arugula salad for something fresh Alternatively a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli makes it feel like a full comforting meal Perfect for casual get togethers or easy family dinners

Cultural Context

Mac and cheese is a beloved staple in American kitchens often found on holiday tables or weeknight menus Adding crispy chicken and spicy honey glaze takes inspiration from Southern comfort cooking where sweet and savory often mingle for craveworthy results

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you make chicken extra crispy?

Double-dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour and avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain optimal oil temperature.

→ Can I use different cheeses in the mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Try Gruyere, Fontina, or a blend for a gourmet twist on the classic cheesy sauce.

→ What's the secret to a smooth cheese sauce?

Whisk continuously while adding milk and heavy cream, and stir in cheese over low heat to avoid clumping.

→ How can I add more spice?

Add a dash of hot sauce or increase the red pepper flakes in the honey pepper glaze for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare components ahead of time?

Yes, cook the chicken and macaroni, then assemble and glaze just before serving for best texture and flavor.