If you’re craving a comfort food classic with a fun, flavorful twist, this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender bites of juicy chicken perfectly kissed with honey’s subtle sweetness, balanced by a bold crack of black pepper, all enveloped in irresistibly creamy, cheesy macaroni. It’s that perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and rich that hits all the right spots and feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, this dish delivers satisfying goodness that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are some simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and creamy indulgence. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s the sharpness of cheddar, the creaminess of mozzarella, or the punch of freshly cracked black pepper enhancing every bite.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the cheese sauce like a dream.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps build the creamy sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to luscious perfection.
- 2 cups whole milk: Brings smoothness and balances the cheese’s sharpness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates extra creaminess for that dreamy mac and cheese texture.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives bold, tangy flavor that every bite needs.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey stretch and mild creaminess to complement cheddar.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Lends a subtle sweetness that beautifully contrasts the pepper.
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (plus more to taste): Adds a bright, spicy kick that wakes up the dish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled or pan-seared, cut into bite-sized pieces): Protein-packed and perfectly tender to mix in.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors making every mouthful satisfying.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente—meaning tender but still a bit firm when you bite it. This texture is key, so your mac and cheese doesn’t become mushy later. Once perfectly cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. This thickens the sauce and gives it that amazing creaminess. Keep whisking for about a minute so the raw flour taste cooks off. Next, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to keep the sauce silky smooth. Let it cook and thicken gently for about five minutes, then stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until they melt into a luscious, cheesy blanket.
Step 3: Flavor It Up with Honey and Pepper
The magic of this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is in this step. Stir in the tablespoon of honey and the freshly cracked black pepper which create that delicious balance of sweet heat. Taste your sauce and add salt or more pepper to suit your preferences—this is where you get to make the dish just right for your palate.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Fold the cooked macaroni and tender chicken pieces into the rich cheese sauce, making sure every bite is coated in creamy goodness. Heat everything together for an additional couple of minutes to meld the flavors. At this point, your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe really starts to sing.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Garnish
Dish out your creation while it’s warm and tempting. Sprinkle some extra cracked pepper on top and maybe a handful of chopped parsley for that fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the plate visually and in flavor.
How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley isn’t just pretty—it adds a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. For a little extra texture, a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or even a dusting of smoked paprika can bring exciting new layers to the dish.
Side Dishes
Keep things simple and satisfying by pairing this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These provide a lovely contrast to the cheesy creaminess, keeping your meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, serve your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins and top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly. It makes the meal feel a little fancier and perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a night in the fridge, making leftovers a treat you’ll look forward to.
Freezing
You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. To keep the texture intact, cool the dish completely, then pack it tightly in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir regularly so it warms evenly and maintains that creamy texture we all love in this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and saves time while keeping this dish just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper alongside the black pepper will give it an extra kick without overpowering the honey’s sweetness.
Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
You can mix and match as you like, but cheddar and mozzarella provide the best balance of flavor and meltiness. Experiment with gouda or fontina if you want to get creative!
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Other pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini work great because they hold onto the cheese sauce well, but stick to smaller shapes for optimal texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken make it a sure hit with kids, plus you can adjust the pepper to be milder if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and exciting about the way sweet honey and peppery spice come together in this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to sit down, relax, and savor every bite—whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself and watch it quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection!
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
Description
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken breast with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, infused with a hint of honey and freshly cracked black pepper. Perfect for a family-friendly main course, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, grilled or pan-seared, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be combined later.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste without browning.
- Add Dairy: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes slightly creamy.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Add the honey and freshly cracked black pepper, stirring well to blend the sweet and peppery flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and more pepper if needed.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in the cooked macaroni and the bite-sized cooked chicken pieces, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Heat Through: Allow the mixture to warm through on low heat for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the honey pepper chicken mac and cheese warm. Garnish with extra cracked black pepper and chopped parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker and convenient option.
- To add a crunchy topping, bake the finished mac and cheese at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes with a breadcrumb topping.
