Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the perfect comfort meal that combines the crunch of golden chicken with the rich creaminess of mac and cheese. This dish is not only hearty but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Honey adds a sweet touch, while the cracked black pepper gives it just the right kick. It’s a simple recipe that anyone can enjoy!

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss it with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add honey, soy sauce, and cracked black pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken and simmer until a sticky glaze forms, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Stir in mustard powder.
7. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth and melted. Mix in the cooked macaroni.
8. Top the mac and cheese with the honey pepper chicken. Serve warm.

How to Serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

This delicious meal is best served warm. You can add a sprinkle of extra cracked black pepper on top or even some fresh herbs for added flavor. It is great as a main dish and pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

How to Store Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

• Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small to ensure even cooking.
• For an extra cheesy mac and cheese, feel free to add more cheese than the recipe calls for.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should still have a slight bite to it before mixing with the cheese sauce.

Variation

You can easily mix things up by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the mac and cheese for added nutrition. You could also use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack, for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately, then combine them before serving.

3. Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s not spicy! The cracked black pepper adds flavor but not heat. If you prefer spicier, you can add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.