Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on two beloved comfort foods, seamlessly combining the creaminess of mac and cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of honey pepper chicken. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a cozy meal at home. The layers of flavor, from the savory cheese sauce to the sweet-and-spicy chicken, make it a standout choice that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly; many of the ingredients can be found in your pantry or are easy to source. Most importantly, it’s a sure hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. When you serve up a bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’re not just serving dinner; you’re creating a memorable experience filled with laughter and satisfaction.

“This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese was a huge hit! The sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the chicken went perfectly with the creamy pasta. My kids couldn’t get enough!” – A happy home cook.

The cooking process explained

Making Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is as enjoyable as it is delicious. You’ll start by preparing your chicken—either baking or frying until crispy and golden. Next, you’ll boil up some spiral noodles until they’re al dente, providing the perfect base for your creamy cheese sauce. The star of this dish is the honey pepper sauce, which combines sweet and tangy flavors to coat the chicken. Once everything is prepared, you’ll blend the pasta with a rich cheese sauce and add crispy bacon for that extra crunch. Finally, you’ll elevate your dish with the honey-coated chicken on top and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish.

What you’ll need

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 16 ounces box spiral noodles
• 25 ounces bag breaded chicken strips
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Fresh Basil for garnish
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup freshly shredded colby jack cheese
• 2-3 cloves minced garlic

Feel free to get creative with the cheeses or use gluten-free noodles if you prefer!