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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight Recipe

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4.9 from 103 reviews

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight combines tender, crispy honey pepper glazed chicken with rich, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The creamy mac and cheese is infused with garlic and onion powders, while the spicy-sweet glaze adds a delightful punch that elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Pepper Glaze:

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Soak the bite-sized chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes to tenderize and add flavor. In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat for frying. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess coating. Fry the chicken in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Place the cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  2. Make the Honey Pepper Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until it slightly thickens and blends flavors. Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces in the glaze until evenly coated for a spicy-sweet finish.
  3. Cook the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top each bowl generously with the honey pepper glazed chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra black pepper if desired for added presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • Soaking the chicken in buttermilk ensures tender, juicy pieces and helps the coating stick better.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes in the glaze to control the heat level to your preference.
  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more robust flavor in the glaze.
  • For a lighter version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with reduced-fat dairy options.
  • Ensure oil temperature is medium to avoid burning the chicken outside while keeping it undercooked inside.

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Honey Pepper Chicken, Comfort Food, Creamy, Crispy Chicken, Homemade Mac and Cheese, Easy Dinner

Find it online: https://tastybella.com/creamy-honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese-delight-recipe/