Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how it brings together two of my favorite comfort foods—savory chicken and cheesy pasta—into one satisfying casserole. The honey-pepper glaze adds a delicious sweet heat that makes this dish feel elevated yet homey. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for a family dinner or simple weeknight treat.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Honey Pepper Chicken

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• honey

• freshly cracked black pepper

• smoked paprika

• garlic powder

• salt

• olive oil or butter

For the Mac and Cheese

• elbow macaroni (or your favorite small pasta shape)

• unsalted butter

• all-purpose flour

• whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)

• sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• mozzarella cheese, shredded

• cream cheese (optional, for extra richness)

• Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)

• salt & pepper

• breadcrumbs or extra cheddar (optional topping)

directions

1. Cook the pasta: I boil salted water and cook the macaroni until just al dente. I drain it and set it aside.

2. Prepare the honey-pepper chicken: I heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high, season chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and plenty of black pepper. I cook until golden and cooked through.

3. Glaze the chicken: I reduce heat, drizzle in honey, and stir until it forms a sticky glaze coating each piece. I remove from heat and keep warm.

4. Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, I melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. I stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until melted and creamy. I add Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine pasta & chicken: I fold the cooked macaroni and honey-pepper chicken into the sauce until everything is coated and heated through.

6. Optional bake: I pour everything into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs or extra cheddar on top, and broil or bake until golden and bubbly.

7. Serve: I scoop into bowls, enjoying the creamy, honey-pepper twists in every comforting bite.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep Time: ~15 minutes

• Cook Time: ~20 minutes

• Optional Bake Time: ~5–7 minutes

• Total Time: ~35–45 minutes

Variations

• Heat it up: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne to the sauce or chicken glaze.

• Protein swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or diced ham.

• Veggie boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted bell peppers for freshness.

• Cheese twist: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce; microwave works in a pinch. If I’ve baked it, I reheat in a 350 °F oven to restore the bubbly topping.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead for a crowd?

Absolutely! I prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving—so it’s warm, creamy, and fresh.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

No problem—I skip it and use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. The sauce is still deliciously creamy.

Is there a lighter version?

I use part-skim milk and reduce the cheese quantities slightly—still creamy, but a bit lighter.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes—I freeze portions (without topping) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or stovetop with a splash of milk.

What’s a good side?

I love pairing this with a crisp side salad or steamed green veggies like broccoli or snap peas to balance the richness.

Conclusion

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate comfort dish with a fun, flavorful twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, sweet, and peppery—all in one bowl. I’m excited for you to make it—it might just become your new go-to comfort meal!

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