Description
Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that marries the sweetness of honey with the kick of black pepper, all while being paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This delightful fusion not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses guests at any gathering. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe is easy to prepare and features vibrant flavors that appeal to everyone. The tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce, served alongside rich mac and cheese, makes for a deliciously hearty meal that is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup pure honey
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of butter, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in honey until smooth.
- Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish and pour half of the honey glaze over it. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- For the cheese sauce, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in another pot, stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Add cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve chicken drizzled with remaining glaze alongside mac and cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 660
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Marinate the chicken for an hour in the honey glaze for deeper flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the mac and cheese. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of black pepper according to your taste.