Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

The aroma of honey and spices fills the kitchen as you prepare to dive into a bowl of comfort. This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines rich, creamy cheese with crispy chicken and a sweet-spicy sauce, making it a delightful meal that takes about 45 minutes to prepare. The combination of flavors works beautifully together, bringing both indulgence and satisfaction to your dinner table.

This recipe is perfect for families or gatherings, sure to impress both kids and adults alike. It’s versatile too; you can make it ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of sweet honey and spicy pepper creates a unique flavor profile.
• Creamy cheese sauce blends perfectly with the pasta and chicken for a comforting dish.
• Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch with every bite.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.

For the Pasta

• 1 16 oz box spiral noodles

For the Chicken

• 1 25 oz. bag breaded chicken strips

For the Bacon

• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the Honey Pepper Sauce

• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 Tbs low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 Tbs vinegar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
• 3/4 cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Chopped fresh basil

Use fresh basil for a burst of flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use any pasta shape you prefer.
• Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Adjust spice level by omitting cayenne.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

How to Make It

Begin crafting this delicious meal by following these steps.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Bake or deep fry the chicken strips according to package directions, then set aside. Aim for a crispy texture for the best results.

Cook the Pasta

2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain.

Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

3. Mix the sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

4. Melt the butter and cream together in a large pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the cheeses one at a time, stirring after each addition until fully melted, then mix in the minced garlic.

Season and Combine

5. Add salt and pepper to taste. Next, stir in the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon until well combined.

Coat the Chicken

6. Dip the chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce until fully coated, then set aside.

Serve

7. Dish up the pasta onto plates and top with the coated chicken strips. Sprinkle with chopped basil and additional bacon, if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: No, the cream sauce may separate.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat for 5-10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Keep the heat low while melting cheese to prevent it from clumping.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier texture.
• Taste the sauce before combining to adjust seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve as a family-style dish at gatherings.
• Precede with garlic bread for an extra treat.