Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Introduction

Sweet and spicy – is there anything better? When you combine tender, juicy chicken coated in a honey-pepper glaze with creamy, cheesy macaroni, it’s hard to beat. This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is one of those recipes that just hits all the right spots. I first made this recipe on a lazy Sunday when I was craving something indulgent but still comforting, and it was love at first bite!

What’s great about this recipe is its balance of flavors and textures. The honey pepper glaze is perfectly sticky, spicy, and sweet, coating each bite of chicken. Paired with the creamy mac and cheese – a rich, cheesy delight that’s so smooth – it’s a match made in comfort food heaven. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a fun potluck!

Ready to bring some sweet, spicy, cheesy goodness to your table? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for any cooking level.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the balance of sweet and spicy flavors with the creamy, comforting macaroni.
• Flavor Explosion: The honey-pepper glaze on the chicken gives it a unique twist that’s both savory and sweet, while the mac and cheese is ultra-creamy and cheesy.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

The honey pepper glaze gives a delightful sweetness with just a touch of heat, while the creamy mac and cheese balances everything out with its rich, cheesy flavor. This meal truly brings together the best of both worlds!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour (Prep: 20 minutes, Cook: 40 minutes)
• Servings: 4-6
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 650, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 35g

Ingredients

Honey Pepper Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Oil, for frying

Honey Pepper Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tsp black pepper (add more if you like it extra spicy)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for extra heat)

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights:

• Honey: The star ingredient of the sauce, honey adds a natural sweetness.
• Black Pepper: Adds a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.
• Cheddar Cheese: Rich, sharp flavor that melts beautifully into the macaroni.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Set aside on a plate.

2nd Step: Fry the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium heat. Once hot (around 350°F), fry the chicken in batches, cooking for about 5-6 minutes per batch until golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3rd Step: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes (if using).
2. Simmer over low heat, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil, as honey can burn easily.
3. Once the sauce is ready, set it aside.

4th Step: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

1. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the honey pepper sauce until each piece is well-coated.
2. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy serving.

5th Step: Cook the Macaroni

1. In a medium saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

6th Step: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and heat until warm, but don’t let it boil.
2. Gradually add cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and smooth. Add mozzarella cheese and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the cheese sauce to your desired creaminess. (If you want a thicker sauce, you can add more cheese or let it simmer for a few more minutes.)
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is well-coated.

7th Step: Serve

1. Plate the creamy macaroni on one side of each dish.
2. Top the other side with the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve

Here are some tasty ways to enjoy this dish:

• With extra sauce: Drizzle extra honey pepper sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
• Add a side of greens: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a fresh contrast.
• Bread on the side: Garlic bread or dinner rolls make this meal even more comforting.

Additional Tips

1. Fry the Chicken in Batches: To keep it crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures an even cook.
2. Thicken the Sauce: Let the honey sauce simmer for a thicker consistency. Watch it closely as honey can burn quickly.
3. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents, which can prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest mac and cheese, shred your cheese at home.
4. Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the chicken is crispy and the mac and cheese is creamy.
5. Adjust Spice Level: For more heat, add extra black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Honey Chicken Tenders: Swap the chicken pieces with tenders for an extra kid-friendly version.
2. Vegan Option: Use tofu or cauliflower for a vegan version and substitute the dairy in the mac and cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese.
3. Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour and use gluten-free pasta.
4. Extra-Crispy Chicken: For even crispier chicken, double-fry it. Fry the chicken once, let it rest, and then fry it a second time for a crispier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how you can round out this meal:

• Classic Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw adds a fresh, cool contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls make this meal extra indulgent and are perfect for mopping up any leftover cheese sauce or honey glaze.
• Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea balances the sweetness and spice of the chicken.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezing: The honey pepper chicken freezes well! Lay the pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the mac and cheese separately. When ready to eat, bake the chicken at 375°F until heated through, and reheat the mac and cheese in a saucepan with a splash of milk.

Special Equipment

• Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: For perfectly crispy chicken.
• Cheese Grater: Grate fresh cheese for the smoothest mac and cheese.
• Parchment Paper: Helps with easy cleanup and serving the sticky honey-pepper chicken.

FAQ Section

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and fry the chicken in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness before tossing it in the honey-pepper sauce.

What if my cheese sauce gets too thick?

If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk and stir it in to reach your desired consistency. The key is to add the milk gradually to prevent the sauce from becoming too runny.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can! To bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the chicken with oil and bake on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. While it won’t be as crispy as frying, it’s a lighter alternative.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! To give it a little extra heat, add more black pepper to the honey sauce or increase the chili flakes. You could even add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for more depth in spice.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the mac and cheese?

Of course! While cheddar and mozzarella make for a classic, creamy blend, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy consistency.

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Conclusion

And there you have it – a dish that brings together the sweet, spicy, creamy, and comforting flavors that are bound to become a family favorite. This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is a perfect example of comfort food taken to the next level, combining a sticky, flavorful chicken with a rich, cheesy macaroni that melts in your mouth.

What I love most about this recipe is how well the flavors come together: the honey pepper glaze gives the chicken a delightful sweetness with just the right hint of spice, balanced beautifully by the creamy mac and cheese on the side. It’s a meal that’s great for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or anytime you’re in the mood for something warm, hearty, and deliciously indulgent.

So, get your ingredients ready, set aside some time, and enjoy creating this ultimate comfort food meal. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for your loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and full bellies to everyone at the table. Happy cooking!