Description
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a rich, indulgent dish that combines juicy grilled chicken, a spicy-sweet honey pepper sauce, and ultra-creamy mac and cheese for a satisfying, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, grilled or pan-seared
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon honey (plus more to taste)
1–2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
12 oz elbow macaroni
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden and fully cooked through (6–8 minutes per side). Let rest, then slice or cube.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly add warmed milk, whisking until sauce thickens.
- Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar, honey, black pepper, and salt until fully melted and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat and heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Add spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra veggies.
- Use a cheese blend like mozzarella or Gouda for variation.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
