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Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Emily
Tender honey pepper glazed chicken served over rich, creamy homemade mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 847 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 1/4 cup pure honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk warmed
  • 3 sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
  • fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until smooth. Pour over chicken in a shallow dish and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to cutting board and rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until smooth. Season with salt to taste. Toss cooked macaroni with cheese sauce until fully coated.
  • Slice chicken and serve over creamy macaroni. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional black pepper if desired.

Notes

  • Freshly grate cheese for smoothest sauce texture
  • Warm milk prevents lumps in cheese sauce
  • Let chicken rest to retain juices when slicing
  • Reserve pasta water to thin sauce if needed
Keyword Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese