Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
A rich and satisfying mac and cheese loaded with honey-glazed pepper chicken, a creamy three-cheese sauce, and comforting pasta — perfect for any cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced or shredded
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine the chicken, honey, and black pepper. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and warmed through, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add the Cheese:
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and all three cheeses. Mix until smooth and melted.
Combine Everything:
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, then gently stir in the honey pepper chicken.
Garnish & Serve:
- Serve hot, sprinkled with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for added color and heat.
Notes
Recipe Notes
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight – Helpful Tips Prep Ahead for Busy NightsThis dish is rich, satisfying, and comes together in under 30 minutes!
• Cook the pasta and prep the chicken ahead to save time.
• Shred the cheese in advance for a smoother, creamier sauce. Balance the Sweet and Savory
The honey and pepper combo creates a beautiful contrast—sweet, spicy, and creamy.
• Adjust the honey to your liking—start with less and add more as needed.
• Use fresh cracked black pepper for bold flavor, or try lemon pepper for a citrusy twist. Cheese Tips
• Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for depth and creaminess.
• Always grate your cheese fresh—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce texture. Creamy Sauce Pro Tips
• Stir constantly while adding milk to prevent lumps.
• Don’t let the sauce boil—low and slow gives the best creamy texture.
• A splash of chicken broth can loosen a too-thick sauce without muting flavor. Serving Suggestions
Top with:
• Crispy bacon bits
• Fresh parsley or green onions
• An extra drizzle of honey pepper glaze for shine and kick
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a full, comforting meal. Easy Variations to Try
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in peas, roasted broccoli, or spinach for color and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Try with grilled shrimp, crispy tofu, or pulled pork instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles instead of pasta. Make It Crowd-Friendly
This recipe doubles easily and makes a hit at potlucks, game nights, or family dinners. Bake in a casserole dish and top with extra cheese for a golden crust!