Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is that ultra—comforting dish every family needs in their back pocket. Each bite delivers rich, silky macaroni and cheese crowned with crispy honey—glazed chicken that is both sweet and peppery. I often make this for game day or cozy movie nights, and there are never leftovers after the first round.

The first time I whipped this up for friends, everyone was fighting over the extra bits of honey pepper chicken. It quickly became our top requested comfort food for gatherings.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: Provides the perfect shape that cradles creamy cheese sauce well Always check for a brand with a hearty bite for best results
• Unsalted butter: Lends richness to the roux and cheese sauce Choose high—quality European—style if available
• All—purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheesy base Opt for unbleached
• Whole milk and heavy cream: They combine for extra creamy texture Use whole milk for richness not skim
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Classic bold flavor in mac and cheese Select sharp cheddar and grate it yourself for top meltiness
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Contributes extra stretch Try to avoid pre—shredded for better texture
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Boost savory flavor depth with no chopping involved Check your spices for freshness
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste Fresh cracked pepper enhances the finish
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that crisps up perfectly Seek out organic if possible for best flavor
• Buttermilk: Gives the chicken juicy tang and keeps it moist Fresh buttermilk makes a difference in tenderness
• Vegetable oil: Lets you fry chicken evenly and crisply Use a neutral oil like canola or peanut
• Paprika: Warm flavor and color for the chicken If you have smoked try that for even more dimension
• Soy sauce: Deepens the umami in the glaze Go for low sodium when possible
• Honey: Brings the main sweet note Choose floral or wildflower honey for a nuanced glaze
• Red pepper flakes: Optional kick add as little or much as your taste demands
• Fresh parsley and extra cracked pepper: Bright finishing touch

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for a minimum of 20 minutes in the refrigerator This ensures juicy tender bites and infuses a tangy flavor

Dredge the Chicken:

Mix flour paprika salt and black pepper in a bowl Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour Shake off excess flour to avoid clumping during frying

Fry the Chicken:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat Test with a small pinch of flour if it bubbles the oil is ready Fry chicken in batches for 4 to 5 minutes per side until all pieces are deeply golden brown and crisp Transfer to a paper towel—lined plate to drain

Prepare the Honey Pepper Glaze:

In a small saucepan combine honey soy sauce cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes if using Simmer gently over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes stirring often until the glaze melds and thickens slightly

Glaze the Chicken:

Toss fried chicken pieces gently in the honey pepper glaze making sure every morsel is coated evenly This step ensures sweet spicy crunch

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente Drain and set aside to avoid sogginess

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In another saucepan melt butter over medium heat Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbling but not browned Slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream whisking constantly to avoid lumps Lower the heat stir in cheddar and mozzarella until completely melted and silky Fold in garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper to season

Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:

Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce Stir until every noodle is coated in creamy goodness

Assemble and Garnish:

Spoon mac and cheese into individual bowls Top liberally with glazed honey pepper chicken Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and more cracked black pepper if desired

Pin it

One of my favorite parts is pouring the thick honey pepper glaze over the sizzling hot chicken It always fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas Everyone in my family knows to gather around the table as soon as that sweet spicy scent hits the air

Storage Tips

For leftovers use airtight containers and keep refrigerated for up to four days I reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the cheese sauce The chicken will stay crispier if you store it separately and add it just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness If you are out of buttermilk plain yogurt mixed with milk also works well For the cheese sauce smoked cheddar or a touch of gouda adds a new level of flavor

Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling but loves the company of a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli on the side Sometimes I drizzle just a little extra honey over the top right before serving for bonus shine and sweetness

Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations

Mac and cheese is a beloved classic in American comfort fare The honey pepper chicken twist adds a southern—inspired touch For fall I like adding a handful of roasted sweet corn or sliced jalapenos for warmth and color

Pin it

This dish is warm filling and so generous on the flavor you will want to make a double batch every time The combination of sweet spicy chicken with ultra creamy mac and cheese guarantees you will bring home rave reviews every time

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you achieve crispy chicken for this dish?

Soak chicken in buttermilk, dredge thoroughly in seasoned flour, and fry until golden for a crispy coating.

→ What makes the cheese sauce rich and creamy?

The mixture of real cheddar, mozzarella, heavy cream, and milk melted together gives a luscious, creamy texture.

→ Is it possible to adjust the spice level?

Yes, reduce or omit red pepper flakes for mild flavor, or add extra for a spicier honey glaze.

→ Can other pasta shapes be substituted for macaroni?

Absolutely! Any short, sturdy pasta like penne or shells works well to hold the creamy cheese sauce.

→ What garnishes pair best with this dish?

Fresh parsley and extra cracked black pepper bring freshness and a vibrant finish to each serving.