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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.

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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. This dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with a velvety cheese sauce, infused with the sweetness of honey and a touch of black pepper for subtle spice. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and topped with a drizzle of honey and fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors in every bite. It’s a versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or as a show-stopping potluck contribution.

Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the pasta:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta, cooked and drained

For garnish:

  • 2 tbsp honey, drizzled on top
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in the honey and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing until fully coated. Gently fold in the cooked chicken.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra honey and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Customizations: Feel free to tailor the recipe with alternative proteins (e.g., shrimp or tofu) or additional spices like cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
  • Cheese Choices: While cheddar and mozzarella are recommended, experimenting with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Parmesan can add unique flavors.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace the pasta with gluten-free alternatives and use a gluten-free thickener for the roux.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat gently with added milk to preserve creaminess.
  • Make-Ahead Advice: Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat just before serving for an easy meal solution.
  • Presentation: A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of parsley not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the dish visually for special occasions.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese/