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 mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 847 kcal
Large skillet
Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Cutting Board
- 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
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.
- 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