Honey Pepper Chicken Mac

This spicy honey pepper chicken with mac and cheese combines comfort food favorites into one irresistible meal. The sweet-spicy glazed chicken pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy pasta for a dinner that satisfies both sophisticated palates and picky eaters alike.

I created this recipe when my in-laws made a surprise visit, and I needed something that would please everyone without keeping me in the kitchen all evening. Now it's requested at nearly every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts the star protein that stays juicy under the sweet glaze
• Fresh garlic minced adds aromatic depth to the honey glaze
• Pure honey creates the sticky sweet base for the chicken glaze
• Freshly ground black pepper provides the heat that balances the sweetness
• Unsalted butter adds richness to both the glaze and cheese sauce
• Elbow macaroni classic shape that holds cheese sauce perfectly
• Sharp cheddar cheese gives robust flavor to the mac and cheese
• Whole milk creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce
• Salt enhances all flavors throughout the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Pat them completely dry with paper towels first to ensure proper browning and adhesion of the glaze. The drier the chicken, the better the glaze will stick.

Create the Honey Glaze

Melt a quarter cup of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to foam slightly. Add the minced garlic and cook for exactly 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately stir in the honey and continue stirring until completely smooth and slightly thickened. This glaze should have a glossy appearance and coat the back of a spoon.

Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish with some space between each piece. Pour half of the prepared honey glaze over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets coated evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for serving. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The top should be caramelized with a beautiful golden color.

Cook the Pasta

While the chicken bakes, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt until the water tastes like seawater. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually about 7 to 9 minutes. The pasta should have a slight bite to it. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse to preserve the starch that helps the cheese sauce adhere.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux without any lumps. Gradually whisk in the milk about half a cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue cooking while stirring until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the shredded cheddar in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until completely melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is thoroughly coated. Divide the mac and cheese among serving plates, top with a glazed chicken breast, and drizzle with the remaining honey glaze. The contrast between the sweet spicy chicken and creamy mac and cheese creates the perfect bite.

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The honey in this recipe isn't just any sweetener. I discovered that using raw, unfiltered honey adds subtle floral notes that processed honey lacks. My grandmother always kept bees, and using her honey in this recipe brings back memories of summer dinners on her porch, making this dish extra special in our family.

Make Ahead Options

This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. The chicken can be marinated in half the glaze mixture for up to 24 hours before baking, which intensifies the flavor. The mac and cheese sauce can be prepared separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency, then toss with freshly cooked pasta. The complete dish can also be assembled and refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

For those who prefer less heat, reduce the black pepper by half and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth without overwhelming spice. Chicken thighs work wonderfully as a juicier alternative to breasts, though they may require an extra 5 minutes of cooking time. The mac and cheese portion welcomes experimentation with cheese blends. Try mixing the cheddar with Gruyère for nuttiness or pepper jack for additional heat. For a healthier version, swap half the pasta for steamed cauliflower florets and use reduced fat milk.

Serving Suggestions

This spicy honey pepper chicken shines when served with a bright, acidic side to balance the richness. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil cuts through the sweetness perfectly. For a complete spread, add roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli tossed with garlic and a splash of balsamic vinegar. When entertaining, serve this on a large platter with the chicken arranged over a bed of mac and cheese, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley for color contrast. A chilled Riesling or crisp hard cider makes an excellent beverage pairing.

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Common Questions

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare both components separately up to 24 hours ahead. Store the chicken and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the mac and cheese, refrigerate in a covered dish. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, and the mac and cheese on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a mild to moderate heat level from the black pepper. If you prefer more heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the honey glaze. For a milder version, reduce the black pepper to 1/2 teaspoon.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! This honey-pepper glaze works wonderfully with boneless pork chops, salmon fillets, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly - pork may need similar timing, salmon typically requires just 12-15 minutes, and tofu about 20-25 minutes to absorb flavors.

→ What cheese alternatives work well for the mac and cheese?

While sharp cheddar provides classic flavor, you can experiment with cheese combinations. Try a mix of Gruyère and white cheddar for sophistication, or incorporate some smoked gouda for depth. For a creamier texture, add 2-3 tablespoons of cream cheese to any cheese combination.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Since this is a hearty dish with protein and starch, balance it with vegetables. Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette complement the rich flavors. For a complete spread, add garlic bread or honey butter cornbread.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Several modifications can reduce calories while maintaining flavor. Use chicken tenderloins for leaner portions, substitute half the honey with maple syrup for less sugar, and prepare the mac and cheese with whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and 2% milk. Adding steamed cauliflower to the mac and cheese also reduces carbs while adding nutrients.