There’s just something magical about a hearty bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese — it’s creamy, cheesy, and the slightest touch of honey and black pepper brings every bite to life. This dish is pure comfort food with a twist: juicy chunks of chicken mingle with velvety cheese sauce, while honey adds warmth and black pepper adds the perfect zing. Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner, a way to use up leftover chicken, or the next star dish for your potluck, you’ll want to return to this recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun, and each one brings something special to the table. With every element from sharp cheese to fragrant black pepper, you’ll taste layers of flavor and that irresistible creamy texture that make this mac and cheese extraordinary.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: The classic noodle shape soaks up all the cheesy goodness and gives the perfect bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and to form the base of a smooth, flavorful sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken your cheese sauce to the ideal creamy consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk: Creates a luscious, silky cheese sauce; whole milk gives maximum richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and creaminess for that pull-apart cheese factor.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, tangy flavor and a signature golden color.
- 1 tablespoon honey: The star ingredient; it adds a gentle sweetness that balances the savory and peppery notes.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste): Infuses a fragrant, spicy kick that works magic with the honey.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces subtle warmth, making the sauce more layered and robust.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded: Use rotisserie or any leftover chicken for flavor and protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to crisp the chicken slightly, maximizing texture and flavor.
- Salt to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and a pop of brightness at the end.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente. It should be tender but still hold some bite, since it’ll continue to absorb flavor once tossed into the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside—don’t rinse it! You want all those twists and turns ready to soak up every drop of cheesy sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce Base
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, sprinkle in your flour and whisk for about a minute to cook away the raw taste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to keep things smooth, then let it gently simmer. You’re aiming for a glossy sauce that thickens enough to coat the back of your spoon—this is the foundation of irresistibly creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in your mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses. Watch as the sauce transforms into a molten, golden mixture. When it’s completely smooth, swirl in the honey, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Taste as you go—the honey and pepper should sing together, neither overpowering, but both making every spoonful memorable.
Step 4: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced or shredded cooked chicken and sauté for a few minutes, just until it’s piping hot and the edges begin to crisp. This quick step enhances the flavor and gives your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese satisfying pops of juicy, savory chicken throughout.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked macaroni and sautéed chicken right into your cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until every piece of pasta and chicken is luxuriously coated. Take a quick taste and feel free to add an extra grind of black pepper or a touch more honey if you want more balance. Serve it bubbling hot for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color, or shave a little extra cheddar over the top while it’s hot. A crack of coarse black pepper on each serving will make every bowl look and taste extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or offer buttery garlic bread for some extra comfort. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts also make fantastic partners, adding color and texture to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party twist, serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins and broil with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, spoon it into a bread bowl for a dramatic, comforting centerpiece or add a drizzle of hot honey just before serving for an extra kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for an even tastier reheated lunch or dinner. Just be sure to let the mac and cheese cool before sealing to avoid any sogginess.
Freezing
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese freezes beautifully! Portion individual servings in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For the best quality, allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back that silky-smooth consistency, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
FAQs
What type Main Course
Cooked, shredded chicken breast is classic and makes things super easy, but rotisserie chicken adds even more flavor. You can also use leftover grilled or roasted chicken—just make sure to dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this mac and cheese in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dish as directed, then let it cool, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove or in the oven with a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For those who love a touch of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or even a couple dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. A drizzle of hot honey before serving also takes the sweet and spicy profile to the next level.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. The cheese sauce and chicken remain deliciously gluten-free.
What’s the best cheese combination for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives you both bold flavor and a creamy, stretchy texture. To mix things up, try smoked cheddar or pepper jack for extra depth, but always include at least one cheese with good melting qualities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate cheesy comfort dish with an exciting twist, Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese just might become your new weeknight favorite. Don’t be surprised if it quickly earns a top spot in your recipe collection—gather your ingredients, give it a try, and savor every sweet and peppery bite!
Print
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious twist on classic mac and cheese with this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta mixed with tender chicken and a hint of sweetness and spice from honey and black pepper. A comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually whisk in milk. Add cheeses, honey, black pepper, and garlic powder; stir until smooth.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, sauté cooked chicken in olive oil until warm and slightly crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add chicken and macaroni to the cheese sauce, mix well. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe.
- For extra flavor, use smoked cheddar or add a pinch of crushed red pepper.
- To bake, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
