Why this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners

Busy schedules demand quick, satisfying meals, and this one-pan recipe delivers both flavor and simplicity. With minimal prep and cleanup, home cooks can spend more time enjoying dinner and less time washing dishes. The integration of seared chicken and tender pasta ensures a truly balanced meal suitable for any family.

Start by searing bite-sized chicken pieces in olive oil, seasoning with garlic powder and kosher salt. Drizzle with honey pepper sauce, informed by the science of honey, and the piquant notes of black pepper. Accomplish a smooth base using a roux cooking technique, stir in cooked elbow macaroni and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Flavor profile: sweet-spicy glaze meets creamy cheese

After assembling, sprinkle a golden panko layer, inspired by Broiled breadcrumb topping inspiration, then broil until bubbly. This approach channels comfort food dinner ideas and highlights the contrast between crisp crust and gooey interior. Discover variations on One-pan honey glazed chicken, Creamy mac and cheese bake or Weeknight skillet dinners.

Enhance your presentation with curated visual photo inspiration and plating hacks for irresistible, crowd-pleasing results.

Sweet notes from caramelized honey blend with the bite of freshly ground pepper, creating a sweet-spicy glaze that perfectly coats tender chicken bites. Combined with smooth, melted cheddar and pepper jack in every forkful, this dish balances richness and heat. Each mouthful delivers layered taste experiences that delight the palate.

Recipe Overview

One-pan simplicity and minimal cleanup

Busy home cooks crave one-pan meals that deliver big flavor without the hassle. This recipe lets you sear chicken, boil pasta, and build a luscious sauce in a single skillet. It transforms weeknight dinners into effortless, crowd-pleasing feasts ready in about 30 minutes.

By harnessing one-pan simplicity, you slash prep and cleanup time—no more switching between pots and pans. Inspired by the One-pan honey glazed chicken trend and guided by the classic roux cooking technique, you’ll streamline every step. Visit our Ingredients Breakdown to master precise ratios, and check out Equipment & Prep Tips for time-saving shortcuts.

Total time, servings, and skill level

Total time, servings, and skill level make planning easy: approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, feeds four to six, and suits cooks of all levels. For a walkthrough, explore our Step-by-Step Instructions and learn about using elbow macaroni. Ideal for busy nights and relaxed weekends.

Ingredients Breakdown

To build this easy glazed chicken mac n cheese, ingredients divide into three components: the Chicken & Honey-Pepper Sauce, the Pasta & Cheese Sauce, and an Optional Topping & Garnish. Each part uses pantry staples and simple flavor boosters to elevate a classic weeknight meal with minimal fuss. These comfort food elements combine to create a family favorite that’s both filling and versatile, making it perfect for busy parents or college students alike.

Chicken & Honey-Pepper Sauce

Key ingredients for succulent glazed chicken include:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 Tbsp honey for sweetness and caramelization
1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper for piquant heat
1 tsp garlic powder and ½ tsp kosher salt
1 Tbsp olive oil to sear and develop a crisp exterior

Drawing inspiration from the aromatic balance of honey and black pepper, this glaze exemplifies the sweet-spicy sauce trend. For detailed ratios and searing tips, see our Equipment & Prep Tips.

Pasta & Cheese Sauce

This creamy base binds flavors and transforms simple pasta into indulgence:

12 oz elbow macaroni
3 Tbsp unsalted butter and 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour to form a roux
2 cups whole milk plus 1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup pepper jack, shredded
½ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp pepper to taste

Inspired by the classic roux cooking technique, the smooth sauce coats each noodle evenly. Refer to our Step-by-Step Instructions for whisking and cheese-melting techniques.

Optional Topping & Garnish

Enhance texture and presentation with:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 Tbsp grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1 Tbsp melted butter
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds vibrant color and herbal brightness.

For a golden finish, broil until crisp and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Explore Broiled breadcrumb topping inspiration for variations.

Equipment & Prep Tips

Must-have tools: skillet, saucepan, broiler-safe dish

Efficient prep starts with gathering your kitchen essentials. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even searing and heat distribution. A separate medium saucepan ensures precise control during roux and sauce preparation. When broiling, transfer the mac and cheese into a broiler-safe dish to achieve a golden crust without burning.

Prep shortcuts: advance chopping, mise en place

Optimize workflow by assembling ingredients before cooking:

Chop chicken into uniform pieces for consistent searing.
Measure and arrange dairy, spices, and pasta in small bowls (a classic mise en place approach).
Pre-shred cheeses and pre-toast panko crumbs in the oven to speed up assembly.
Bring water to a boil while searing chicken to overlap steps.
Keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe spills and maintain a clean workstation throughout cooking.

For additional tips on timing and assembly, refer to our Step-by-Step Instructions guide. Effortless efficiency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Searing the Honey-Pepper Chicken

Begin by patting chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure proper browning. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat in a heavy skillet until shimmering. Add chicken in a single layer and sear without moving for 2 minutes, then flip and sear 2 minutes more. Reduce heat to medium, drizzle 3 Tbsp honey over the chicken, sprinkle 1 tsp garlic powder, 1½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp kosher salt. Toss gently and cook 1 minute until glaze thickens and clings to each bite.

Cooking the Macaroni to Al Dente

While chicken cooks, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil. Stir in 12 oz elbow macaroni and cook 1 minute less than package instructions for perfect al dente texture. Drain thoroughly, reserving ½ cup pasta water. This reserved liquid helps adjust sauce viscosity for an ultra-creamy finish.

Crafting the Cheese Sauce

In a clean saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 Tbsp unsalted butter. Whisk in 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour and cook 1 minute to form a golden roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, whisking constantly to eliminate lumps. Once the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, stir in 1½ cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup pepper jack until fully melted and smooth. Season with ½ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp pepper. If needed, whisk in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, for optimal creamy cheese sauce consistency. For detailed technique, see our Equipment & Prep Tips.

Combining, Topping & Broiling

Transfer drained macaroni and glazed chicken into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every piece. Move the mixture into a broiler-safe dish and evenly sprinkle ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 Tbsp Parmigiano-Reggiano and 1 Tbsp melted butter. Broil 2–3 inches from the heat for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Watch carefully to prevent burning. For inspiration, check Broiled breadcrumb topping inspiration and our Step-by-Step Instructions page.

Plating & Garnishing

Let the dish rest for two minutes to allow the cheese to set. Scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a burst of herbaceous brightness. Serve immediately alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced weeknight dinner experience.

Tips & Tricks for Success

Mastering the texture and flavor of this dish hinges on a few simple adjustments.

Test pasta one minute before al dente and reserve pasta water to fine-tune sauce consistency.
Add honey incrementally, balancing with freshly ground black pepper to achieve a nuanced sweet-spicy glaze.
Bring milk and cream to room temperature before whisking into the roux; this prevents shock cooling and reduces graininess.
Grate cheeses fresh using the large holes of a box grater to ensure smoother melting and even distribution.
When broiling, place the casserole two to three inches from the heat source and broil for no more than three minutes, watching constantly to avoid scorching.
Allow the baked mixture to rest for two minutes before serving; this brief period lets the sauce set and improves slicing consistency.

These tweaks ensure consistent results, making this easy glazed chicken mac n cheese delicious.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize this dish to suit dietary preferences and ingredient availability with simple variations and substitutions.

Swap chicken for ground turkey or shredded rotisserie turkey to save time and introduce leaner protein.
Use firm tofu cubes, pressed and marinated in soy sauce-honey blend, for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
Substitute cooked shrimp during the last two minutes of searing for a seafood twist.
Experiment with cheese blends: swap sharp cheddar for gouda, or add mozzarella for extra stretch.
Replace half-and-half or dairy-free creamer for heavy cream and milk to suit lactose intolerance.
Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko to accommodate gluten sensitivity, ensuring crisp texture remains intact.
For a smoky dimension, stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or swap regular paprika.
You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for added color, nutrition.

Feel free to mix and match these options to craft a personalized comfort meal that fits your table.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers properly and reheat with care to maintain creamy texture and crisp topping.

Refrigeration: cool the casserole to room temperature, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: transfer portions into freezer-safe containers; freeze up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Stovetop reheating: warm a portion over low heat in a nonstick skillet, stirring gently and adding a splash of milk to revive sauce creaminess.
Oven reheating: preheat oven to 350°F, place the dish covered with foil on a baking sheet, and bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
To crisp the topping after reheating, remove the cover and broil for one to two minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Proper storage and gentle reheating preserve the signature creamy sauce and golden breadcrumb crust for repeat enjoyment.

Always discard leftovers after four days.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken? Yes. Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken in step one. Gently warm in the honey-pepper glaze to coat without overcooking. Reduce searing time to avoid drying. It still absorbs bold flavor.

What other pasta shapes can I use? Any short pasta works well. Try shells, cavatappi, or penne for a fun twist. Adjust cooking times as needed for al dente texture. Short shapes also hold sauce especially well.

How far in advance can I prep this dish? Assemble up to the broiling step and refrigerate, covered, for up to 24 hours. Add breadcrumbs and broil just before serving to retain crunch. Fully assembled dishes can be prepped in under fifteen minutes.

Is it freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat per instructions. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve sauce creaminess and topping texture.

How to Make Easy Glazed Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac and Cheese

Why this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners

Flavor profile: sweet-spicy glaze meets creamy cheese