pper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and comfort all in one plate, then this pper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is about to become your new favorite. Juicy chicken breasts glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce meet a luscious, velvety macaroni cheese that’s packed with sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella. This combination brings together an exciting contrast of heat, sweetness, and cheesy indulgence in every bite, making it perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with something a little special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items to whip up this delicious dish. Each ingredient plays a key role — from the tender chicken soaking up rich honey and spices, to the creamy cheesy sauce that hugs every macaroni piece with comforting warmth.

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors of the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essentials for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Olive oil: A little healthy fat to get the chicken beautifully golden and juicy.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a slight sticky glaze to balance the spicy pepper heat.
• Soy sauce: Brings in an umami depth and savory richness to the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that brightens the whole chicken glaze.
• Ground black pepper: Adds aromatic warmth with a mild kick.
• Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlicky scent without overpowering the chicken.
• Onion powder: Introduces a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Ground cayenne pepper: The spicy star that ups the heat with just the right amount of fire.
• Macaroni pasta: Classic small pasta shapes perfect for capturing cheesy sauce.
• Butter: The rich foundation for the creamy cheese sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect silky consistency.
• Milk: Creates the creamy texture and light base for the cheese sauce.
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings strong, tangy cheese flavor to the macaroni mix.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds stretchiness and smooth meltiness for that irresistible gooey texture.
• Parsley, chopped: A fresh green garnish that adds color and a little herbal brightness.

How to Make pper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook it until it’s deeply golden and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare that delicious honey pepper sauce.

Step 2: Craft the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to wash it—those browned bits add flavor), combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly into a luscious glaze. This sauce is where the magic happens, balancing sweet, tangy, and spicy notes perfectly.

Step 3: Slice and Coat the Chicken

Once the sauce is ready, slice the cooked chicken into strips. Return them to the skillet and toss so each piece is generously coated in that sticky, flavorful sauce. This step locks in all the juices and ensures every bite of chicken has that irresistible honey pepper kick.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente. This means the pasta should still have a little bite and not be mushy, which is key since it will cook a bit more once mixed with the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Slowly add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a custard-like texture. Then, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and silky smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with the Cheese Sauce

Now it’s time to bring the creamy macaroni cheese to life. Add the cooked macaroni to the pot of cheese sauce and stir well to make sure every noodle is coated in rich, cheesy goodness. This is the comfort-food base that pairs so well with your flavorful honey pepper chicken.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

For the finale, spoon a generous bed of creamy macaroni cheese onto your plates and top with those saucy honey pepper chicken strips. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely color contrast and a hint of freshness, making this dish as pretty as it is delicious.

How to Serve pper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice that lightly brightens the dish visually and in flavor, but feel free to experiment with chives or even a light dusting of smoked paprika for an extra hint of depth. Garnishes can elevate the dish and make it feel special without much effort.

Side Dishes

While this dish is hearty on its own, pairing it with a crisp side like a green salad or roasted vegetables adds balance. Think steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans with garlic—these simple greens provide a fresh counterpoint to the creamy and spicy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the creamy macaroni cheese in mini cast iron skillets topped with honey pepper chicken for individual portions that look elegant and inviting. Or, try layering the chicken and macaroni in a baking dish and broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully after resting, making leftovers taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, especially the chicken and macaroni cheese kept separately. Portion portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess in the macaroni cheese. Adding a splash of milk can help loosen the sauce if it thickens up during storage.

FAQs

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a dairy-free version of the macaroni cheese?

Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and use vegan cheeses. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

How spicy is the honey pepper chicken?

The ground cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the honey without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The honey pepper sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently before tossing with the chicken to save time on busy nights.

What is the best type of cheese to use for maximum creaminess?

Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, while mozzarella ensures a smooth, melty texture. Combining the two is key to getting that rich, creamy macaroni cheese everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

This pper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for those moments when you want comfort food that feels a bit special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!

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