Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with crispy chicken strips glazed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. The addition of crispy bacon and fresh basil elevates the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

2 cups elbow macaroni

For Garnish:

Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine honey, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips and toss them in the honey pepper mixture until well-coated.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken strips for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Slowly whisk in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Assemble the Dish:
- Transfer the cheesy pasta to a serving dish.
- Top with honey pepper chicken strips.
Serve:
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey pepper mixture for extra heat.
Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gouda or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use cavatappi, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of butter for a lighter version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving to maintain the best texture.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a small amount of cayenne pepper to the honey pepper mixture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken is breaded with gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?

Ensure the heat is low when adding the cheese and stir continuously to create a smooth sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just toss it in the honey pepper sauce and heat through before serving.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based milk and butter to make this dish dairy-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is a fusion of comfort and gourmet flavors that will satisfy your cravings. The rich, cheesy pasta combined with the sweet and spicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh basil creates a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and become a family favorite.

Chef MARTHA