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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese: The Incredible Ultimate Recipe


  • Author: Ava Reynolds
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 pound chicken breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)


Instructions

Creating Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is simple when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce: In the same skillet, add honey to the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened and caramelized. Remove from heat.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

5. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is smooth.

6. Add Cheese: Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese, continuing to mix until the cheese melts completely.

7. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, honey pepper chicken, and cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure everything is coated.

8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

9. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the dish for about 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.

11. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

These simple steps will help you create a hearty and flavorful Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese that will leave your family wanting more!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Fat: 30g
  • Protein: 35g