Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is a rich and indulgent comfort food classic with a gourmet twist. Tender, juicy honey-glazed chicken seasoned with cracked black pepper is paired with perfectly cooked macaroni drenched in a silky, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of creamy, sweet, and peppery flavors that melt in your mouth. It’s quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or your choice of short pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Honey Pepper Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ –1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes for added heat
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken strips with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low, add honey and more cracked black pepper.
- Stir until chicken is glazed and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Lower heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and a bit of pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Plate the mac and cheese and top with honey pepper chicken strips.
- Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.