Description
Creamy, cheesy, crispy, and sweet — this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Golden-fried chicken tossed in a sticky honey pepper glaze is served over ultra-creamy mac and cheese. Perfect for indulgent dinners or treating guests.
Ingredients
For the Mac 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 cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute, then slowly add milk and cream. Simmer until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth. Fold in cooked macaroni. Keep warm.
- Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for 10–15 minutes. Mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a deep pan. Dredge chicken in flour mixture and fry until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a small pan, mix honey, soy sauce, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Toss crispy chicken in the honey pepper glaze.
- Serve glazed chicken over the creamy mac and cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use pre-cooked or frozen chicken tenders for a shortcut.
- Spice level can be adjusted with more or less red pepper flakes.
- Mac and cheese can be baked with breadcrumbs for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop & Frying
- Cuisine: American