Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, look no further than my Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. This recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring juicy chicken thighs glazed in a honey pepper sauce, all served over creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings!

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a special dinner for friends, this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese hits the spot every time. It’s easy to make and absolutely delicious—trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this tasty dish ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of chicken and cheesy pasta makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The sweet honey pepper sauce adds a unique twist that elevates classic mac and cheese into something special.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. These items are not only easy to find but also come together beautifully to create this comforting dish.

For the Chicken

• 16 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
• 3/4 cup Wholesome Yum Keto Honey Substitute
• 1/4 cup 100% Pineapple Juice
• 1/4 cup Light Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Splenda Brown Sugar
• 3 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/3 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 oz Al Dente Carba Nada Cavatappi (dry)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3/8 cup Lite Shredded Mozzarella (Trader Joe’s)
• 3/8 cup Lite Shredded 3 Cheese Blend (Trader Joe’s)
• 2 wedges Light Laughing Cow Creamy Cheese
• 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan
• 1-1/2 slices Velveeta Cheese
• 1/2 cup Fat Free Evaporated Milk
• 1 tsp Black Pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Change the pasta shape: Use any pasta shape you love—elbow macaroni or penne work great too!
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some red pepper flakes for extra kick.

How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut up your chicken into bite-size pieces, place them in a bowl, and set aside. This step helps ensure even cooking and makes it easier to enjoy every bite later!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small saucepan, whisk together all your sauce ingredients until well combined. Bring it to a quick boil before turning off the heat. This step is crucial as it melds all those lovely flavors together.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour just less than half of your sauce over the chicken pieces. Mix well and let it marinate in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. Marinating helps infuse flavor into the chicken so each bite is bursting with taste.

Step 4: Prep Your Cheeses

While your chicken marinates, take some time to grate your parmesan cheese, measure out your shredded cheeses, open those creamy cheese wedges, and tear up your Velveeta. Having everything ready will make assembling your mac and cheese so much smoother!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Air fry your marinated chicken in two batches at 400°F for 15 minutes each. Remember to move those pieces around halfway through cooking! Once cooked, place them in a clean mixing bowl where they can stay warm while you finish up.

Step 6: Boil Your Pasta

While your first batch of chicken cooks, start boiling your cavatappi pasta according to package instructions. Cooking everything simultaneously keeps things efficient!

Step 7: Create Your Cheese Sauce

After draining your cooked pasta, return it to its pot. Pour in that luscious evaporated milk along with all your cheeses. Add black pepper too! Stir until everything is perfectly melted together for that creamy goodness.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Reheat any remaining sauce quickly before pouring it over your cooked chicken. Mix well until every piece is fully coated in that delicious glaze.

Step 9: Assemble Your Bowls

Start layering by placing pasta in lunch containers followed by the honey pepper chicken on top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley over it!

Step 10: Enjoy!

Dig into these delicious bowls filled with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! Savor each mouthful of this comfort food delight; I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to enhance your dish!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes helps deepen the flavors, making every bite burst with that sweet and spicy honey pepper goodness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption while keeping it juicy.
• Mix Cheeses for Extra Creaminess: Combining different types of cheese not only adds flavor but also creates a rich, creamy texture that makes your mac and cheese irresistibly smooth.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooking your pasta (al dente) is crucial. It will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, resulting in better texture and flavor when served.
• Customize Your Heat Level: If you enjoy a little more spice, feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your taste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add an extra kick!

How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese can elevate it from a simple meal to a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love heat, sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top adds an appealing pop of color and spice.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly while adding fiber and nutrients to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a wonderful side that you can use to scoop up any leftover cheese sauce—who wouldn’t love that?
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and texture, making your plate visually appealing while contributing healthy nutrients.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re ready to impress anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Meal prep just got easier with this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip up a batch and store it for quick meals during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Cool the dish completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into individual servings in freezer-safe containers.
• Label and date your containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the cheese sauce.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs add moisture and flavor, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure not to overcook them for best results!

How spicy is the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

The spiciness largely depends on how much cayenne pepper you add. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference. It’s all about finding that perfect balance of sweet and spicy!

Can I make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, store it in portioned containers, and enjoy it throughout the week.

What can I serve with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

This mac and cheese is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Is there a vegetarian option for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Certainly! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu, while maintaining all other elements of the recipe for a delightful vegetarian twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese as much as I do! Its blend of sweet, spicy, and cheesy flavors makes it truly special. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up something cozy for dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!