Description
There’s something magical about the combination of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that makes Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese an unforgettable dish. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing comfort and joy with every bite.
Ingredients
Tender chicken breast
Elbow macaroni
Sharp cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Honey
Freshly cracked black pepper
Salt
Olive oil
Butter
Flour
Milk
Instructions
1. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook it in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted into a velvety sauce. Add honey and black pepper, stirring until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and creamy sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated, and the chicken is evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or parmesan for a unique twist.
To add more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or plant-based protein.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg