Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with crispy chicken strips glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. This comforting dish brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 16 oz box spiral noodles
• 1 25 oz bag breaded chicken strips
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Basil, chopped fresh
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup freshly shredded colby jack cheese
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bake or deep fry the breaded chicken strips according to the package directions or make your own. Set aside once cooked.
2. Step 2: Cook the spiral noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken.
4. Step 4: In a large pan, melt the butter and heavy cream together over medium heat.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack cheeses one at a time, stirring after each addition until melted and smooth. Stir in the minced garlic until fully incorporated.
6. Step 6: Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the crumbled bacon.
8. Step 8: Dip each cooked chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce until fully coated and set aside.
9. Step 9: To serve, plate the mac and cheese and top with the honey pepper coated chicken strips. Garnish with additional chopped basil and extra bacon if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• You can use grilled chicken instead of breaded strips for a lighter option.
• Fresh basil added at the end brightens the flavors—don’t skip it!
• If you prefer a thicker cheese sauce, simmer the cream and butter mixture a bit longer before adding cheese.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the honey pepper sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before dipping the chicken strips.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pineapple juice?

Replace pineapple juice with fresh orange juice or apple juice for a similar sweet and tangy flavor in the sauce.