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HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN MAC AND CHEESE

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How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something comforting and unique. Here’s how to make it!

Step 1: Cook the Honey Pepper Chicken

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  3. Make the Honey Pepper Glaze: While the chicken is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey pepper glaze over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let the chicken rest in the pan for a few minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.
  4. Slice the Chicken: After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  3. Add the Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly.
  4. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
  5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly. Keep the heat low to ensure the cheese sauce doesn’t separate.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

  1. Combine the Chicken and Mac and Cheese: Gently fold the honey pepper chicken into the mac and cheese, making sure the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
  2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with extra pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the irresistible combination of creamy cheese and sweet, spicy chicken!

Tips for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Chicken Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs, which are more tender and flavorful. You could also swap the chicken for shrimp or even a vegetarian protein like tofu.
  • Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, use less; for more heat, add extra. You can also experiment with different spices, such as cayenne or chili powder.
  • Make It Creamier: For an extra-creamy mac and cheese, feel free to add more cheese or a splash of cream. You could also incorporate some cream cheese into the sauce for a rich, velvety texture.
  • Toppings: Top the finished dish with extra cheese, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), or even crispy bacon crumbles for added texture and flavor.

Variations of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Bacon Add-In: Add crispy bacon bits to the mac and cheese for an added crunch and smoky flavor.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and substitute it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version of this dish.
  • Different Cheese Combinations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda, fontina, or pepper jack, to change up the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside a few complementary dishes:

  • Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of mac and cheese.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the mac and cheese and adds a fresh element to the meal.
  • Steamed Vegetables: If you’re looking to add more veggies to the plate, steamed broccoli or asparagus would make an excellent side dish.

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