Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Combining creamy cheese sauce with crispy breaded chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 16 oz box spiral noodles
• 1 25 oz bag breaded chicken strips
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Basil, chopped fresh
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup freshly shredded colby jack cheese
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bake or deep fry the breaded chicken strips according to the package directions or your preferred method. Set aside when done.
2. Step 2: Cook the spiral noodles following the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Step 4: In a large pan, melt the butter and heavy cream together over medium heat.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack cheeses one at a time, stirring after each addition until smooth and fully melted. Stir in minced garlic until incorporated.
6. Step 6: Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well. Stir in the crumbled bacon until evenly combined.
8. Step 8: Dip each cooked chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce, coating thoroughly, then place aside.
9. Step 9: To serve, plate the mac and cheese and top with the honey pepper chicken strips. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and additional bacon if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, bake the chicken strips in a hot oven after dipping in the honey pepper sauce.
• Use gluten-free pasta and chicken strips to make this dish gluten-free.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Swap pineapple juice for orange juice for a slightly different citrus note.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed. For best texture, reheat chicken strips separately to keep them crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the honey pepper sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Warm it gently before coating the chicken to ensure it remains smooth and pourable.

What can I substitute for bacon?

If you prefer to skip bacon, crisped pancetta or smoked turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms add a nice savory element.