Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Name: Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound); 8 oz macaroni or elbow pasta; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt to taste

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

July 31, 2025

Updated:

July 31, 2025

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The moment you sink your fork into a bowl of Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll feel like you’re getting a warm hug from the inside. Picture this: gooey cheese hugging tender pasta, perfectly cooked chicken, and a hint of sweetness mingling with pepper’s zesty kick. It’s comfort food at its finest, making you question why you ever considered that sad salad for dinner.

Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this dish. It was one of those days when I came home exhausted from work—my head spinning like a top and my stomach growling louder than a hungry bear. I rummaged through the fridge, praying for inspiration. Then it hit me! With just a few pantry staples and some leftover chicken, I whipped up this creamy delight. The aroma wafted through my kitchen, pulling in my family like moths to a flame. It was an instant hit, and now it’s our go-to comfort meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Bursting with flavors from honey and pepper, it creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Visually stunning with its creamy texture and colorful ingredients, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
This recipe is versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your pantry!

Ingredients for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 2-3 breasts for optimal flavor; they cook quickly and absorb all the deliciousness.
Pasta (Macaroni or Elbow): Choose your favorite shape; macaroni holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; it’s the secret weapon in creating that creamy base.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for thickening your sauce; it helps create that luxurious texture we all love.
Milk (whole or half-and-half): Use whole milk for creaminess; half-and-half will elevate your dish to gourmet status.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best; it melts beautifully and adds a punch of flavor.
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances out the savory elements; local honey gives it extra depth.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth; adjust to your spice level preference.

For seasoning:

Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic flavor without any chopping fuss; use liberally!

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

Recipe preparation for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan with melted butter. Cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes each side—until fully cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot filled with salted water, bring it to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the skillet where you cooked your chicken (let’s not waste that flavor), melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened—about five minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Flavoring

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into a lovely creamy mixture. Next, add honey and black pepper to taste—this is where magic happens!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Chop or shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with pasta in a large bowl. Pour that luscious cheese sauce over everything, stirring gently until well combined.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese into bowls or plates. Drizzle with additional honey if desired for an extra touch of sweetness!

Get ready for an explosion of flavors as you dig into this comforting masterpiece! Your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know

This creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
With its cheesy goodness and sweet peppery kick, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests at dinner parties!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet to lock in those delicious juices. While that’s happening, boil your pasta until al dente. Mix up your creamy sauce as soon as the chicken is done, and then combine everything for a heavenly dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you want to mix things up! Add some sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it gets too thick.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Keep your chicken juicy by not overcooking it; aim for that perfect golden brown.
Always taste your sauce before mixing it with pasta to adjust seasoning.
For extra creaminess, reserve some pasta water before draining.

Nothing beats the moment when my friend took a bite of this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese and declared it “life-changing.” That smile was worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

To make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need macaroni pasta, chicken breast, honey, black pepper, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt. These ingredients combine to create a creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and chicken. You can also add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Preparing Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes time for cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken, and combining all the ingredients into a deliciously creamy dish. If you’re looking to save time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. This way, you can enjoy this comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Can I make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Simply cook the dish as instructed and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve it, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s heated through. Just be sure to stir in a little extra cream or milk if it has thickened while stored. This will keep your mac and cheese creamy and delicious.

What can I serve with Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread for added texture and flavor. For those who enjoy spice, consider adding pickled jalapeños or a hot sauce drizzle on top. This adds an exciting kick that complements the dish beautifully.

Conclusion for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:

In summary, Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful comfort food that combines tender chicken with gooey cheeses in a rich sauce. The addition of honey offers a sweet touch that contrasts perfectly with the heat from black pepper. Whether you’re preparing dinner for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy making this recipe that delivers both flavor and satisfaction in every bite!

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