Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

In the world of comforting meals, few dishes can rival the heartwarming blend of sweet and spicy chicken paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This recipe for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a perfect dinner option that combines the zest and tang of honey-pepper glazed chicken with the rich, gooey goodness of homemade macaroni and cheese. It’s not only satisfyingly delicious but also surprisingly straightforward to make. Here’s how you can bring this delightful dish to your table.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• For the Macaroni Cheese:
  • 8 ounces macaroni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• For Garnishing:
  • Chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Prepare Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make Sauce:

• Using the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Slice the cooked chicken into strips and toss them back into the skillet with the honey pepper sauce, ensuring the pieces are well coated. Set aside.

4. Cook Pasta:

• While preparing the chicken, cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente; then drain.

5. Prepare Cheese Sauce:

• In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue stirring constantly and bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Finish Cheese Sauce:

• Remove the pot from heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Assemble Dish:

• Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Serve the mac and cheese on plates, topped with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 850 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe promises a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to impress your family or guests. It’s the perfect dish for when you’re in the mood for something special yet comforting. Enjoy cooking and more importantly, enjoy your meal!