Why You’ll Love Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
This recipe offers the perfect balance of flavors: the chicken is glazed with a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, while the rich and creamy macaroni cheese provides a deliciously mellow base. It’s a complete meal in one plate, easy enough for busy weeknights and indulgent enough for a weekend treat. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:
8 ounces macaroni pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
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Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return them to the skillet, coating them in the honey pepper sauce. Set aside.
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Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
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Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
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Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta until fully coated.
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Serve the macaroni cheese topped with honey pepper chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
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Add steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers to the macaroni cheese for added veggies.
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Swap the cheddar and mozzarella with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
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For extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
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Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken and macaroni cheese separately in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk to the macaroni cheese when reheating to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate.
FAQs
What does honey pepper chicken taste like?
It has a delicious balance of sweetness from the honey and a kick of spice from black and cayenne pepper.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare both the chicken and macaroni cheese a day ahead and store them separately. Reheat before serving.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just slice the chicken and toss it in the honey pepper sauce to heat through.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste.
What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white vinegar or lemon juice in equal amounts.
How do I make this dish creamier?
Add more cheese or a splash of cream to the sauce for extra richness.
Can I bake the mac and cheese?
Yes, transfer it to a baking dish, top with more cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version.
What sides go well with this dish?
A light salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with the rich and spicy main.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Make sure to melt the cheese off the heat and stir gently to create a smooth sauce.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—savory, sweet, spicy, and cheesy. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just indulging at home, this recipe brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
