This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is pure comfort food with a bold, flavorful twist. Creamy, cheesy macaroni meets crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving something indulgent, this dish hits all the right notes—rich, crunchy, sweet, and savory.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance: Creamy mac and cheese + crispy, sweet-spicy chicken = flavor heaven.
- Weeknight-ready: Takes under an hour to prepare.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Feels gourmet without the fuss.
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese Base
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Pepper Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Honey Pepper Glaze
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in the seasoned flour, and shake off excess.
- Fry chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
2. Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Toss the crispy chicken in the glaze to coat evenly. Set aside.
3. Cook the Mac and Cheese
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble and Serve
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Spoon mac and cheese into bowls or plates.
- Top with honey pepper chicken bites.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, extra cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of glaze if desired.
Tips for Success
- Double the glaze if you love extra sauce on your chicken or to drizzle over the mac and cheese.
- Air fry or bake the chicken for a lighter version—brush with oil and cook at 400°F until crispy.
- Want it spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness.
- Make it a bowl: Layer mac and cheese, chicken, extra glaze, and scallions.
Storage & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Servings: 4
Calories: ~650
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 55g
Fat: 35g
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate comfort dish that delivers bold, crave-worthy flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, this easy yet elevated meal is always a hit. Save it, share it, and most importantly—enjoy!
Craving more comforting mash-ups like this? Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and pin it for later!