Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese – Easy Recipe
Welcome to the delicious world of comforting and hearty meals! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that combines two beloved comfort food staples: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. This irresistible dish is the perfect fusion of tender honey pepper chicken strips, rich and creamy cheese sauce. If you’re a fan of indulgent, cheesy, and slightly sweet meals, this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe will become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Get ready to discover a flavorful twist on traditional mac and cheese, with a touch of sweetness and a kick of spice, sure to delight everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces spiral noodles: These hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully.
- 25 ounces breaded chicken strips: You can bake or fry these for a crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Provides a pop of color and freshness.
- 3/4 cup honey: The key to the sweet element of the sauce.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness with depth.
- 3 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium): Adds a salty, umami balance.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Brings a fruity tang to the sauce.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the sauce with acidity.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: Adds tang and sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: For a slight kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1 stick butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for that stringy cheese pull.
- 3/4 cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded: Adds a mild, creamy flavor.
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic depth of flavor.
- Chopped fresh basil: Adds a finishing touch of freshness.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
- Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Step 6: Coat the Chicken in Honey Pepper Sauce
- Step 7: Assemble and Serve