Name: Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp cracked black pepper (plus more to taste); ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt to taste; 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice); 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp honey (for finishing); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Description

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines sweet and spicy glazed chicken with ultra-creamy, cheesy pasta for the ultimate comfort food. It’s an easy yet indulgent meal that balances bold flavor and rich texture.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp cracked black pepper (plus more to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp honey (for finishing)
Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

In a bowl, coat chicken breasts with 2 tbsp honey, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and salt.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest before slicing.
Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream while whisking. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Lower heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season to taste.
Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
Top with sliced chicken. Drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp honey and more black pepper.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Add red chili flakes or cayenne for extra spice.
Use alternative cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
Swap chicken for roasted veggies or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy finish.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 680
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 155mg