Irresistible Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Published: June 18, 2025

by Maria

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The moment you take a bite of Creamy Honey Pepper BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls/”>BBQ chicken with sweet potatoes

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Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Is there a way to make it lighter?
What sides pair well with this dish?
📖 Recipe Card

As you stir the pot, the aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your family come running like hungry puppies. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this creamy delight will steal the show.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its flavor profile balances sweetness and spice beautifully. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table. This dish is versatile enough to customize based on available ingredients. [/info_box]

When I first made this dish for my family, their reactions were priceless: eyes wide open, forks poised mid-air, as they savored every creamy bite! It turned into an instant favorite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on the crowd you’re feeding.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best for holding onto that creamy sauce. cheesy pasta variations.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that shines through.
Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its creaminess; skim just won’t cut it here.
Honey: Use pure honey to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness.
Black Pepper: Freshly Ground Turkey Zucchini Skillet-recipe/”>ground turkey skillet dish.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth of flavor without the fuss of chopping garlic.
Butter: A little bit of butter goes a long way in creating that luscious sauce.
Panko Breadcrumbs (optional): These add a delightful crunch if you choose to bake it topped!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to go. This helps keep things organized and reduces stress during cooking.

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat, then stir in milk, garlic powder, honey, and black pepper into the skillet. garlic butter BBQ tacos Let it simmer until slightly thickened for about 5 minutes.

Add Cheese and Pasta: Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Stir in cooked macaroni until well combined and coated.

Bake (optional): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish if you like a crunchy topping. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top for extra texture before baking for 20 minutes until golden brown.

With these steps completed, you’ve created a glorious dish that’s sure to become a staple at your dining table! Enjoy every spoonful of this indulgent meal that combines comfort with gourmet flair!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese combines indulgence with comfort. The rich flavors and textures will have your guests begging for seconds. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, it’s a dish that warms the heart and the belly. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce for a seamless meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses or add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent drying.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Searing the chicken before cooking enhances flavor and texture, making every bite irresistible. Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier sauce, avoiding pre-shredded varieties. Don’t rush adding your seasonings; they need time to develop their full flavor profile. [/info_box]

Cooking this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese always brings back memories of my friend’s dinner party where everyone went back for thirds!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well, but smaller shapes hold sauce better.

Is there a way to make it lighter?

You can use low-fat cheese or substitute Greek yogurt for creaminess without too many calories.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A light salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of mac and cheese perfectly.