A plated dish of crispy honey pepper chicken glazed with sweet and spicy sauce, garnished with parsley, served with creamy macaroni and cheese on a rustic wooden table.

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac

by

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade dish, this recipe offers a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen. The juicy, crispy chicken is coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze that packs a punch, while the creamy macaroni & cheese delivers rich, cheesy goodness in every bite. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Honey Pepper Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Creamy Macaroni & Cheese:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

Directions

Honey Pepper Chicken:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  6. Toss the fried chicken in the honey pepper sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.

Creamy Macaroni & Cheese:

  1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  2. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
  3. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if using).
  5. Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the cheese sauce.

Assembly:

  1. Serve the creamy macaroni & cheese as the base on a large plate.
  2. Top with the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness, if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4 generous portions
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for a unique twist.
  • Macaroni Add-ins: Mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
  • Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, parmesan, or pepper jack to customize the mac and cheese.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover chicken and macaroni & cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat the macaroni & cheese in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and crispy. Use a wire rack on a baking sheet for even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cheese sauce a day in advance. Reheat and assemble the dish just before serving.

3. Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the chicken, and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free. Substitute gluten-free pasta for the macaroni.

4. How can I make the macaroni & cheese creamier?

To make it creamier, you can add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce. Stir it in until smooth and well combined.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended for the macaroni & cheese as the texture of the sauce can change. However, the chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight treat or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow steps and versatile variations, it’s a dish that anyone can master and customize. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy in every bite!