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–+ servings
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni can substitute with gluten-free pasta
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option
  • 1 tbsp olive oil can be swapped with another cooking oil
  • 1 tsp salt adjust according to taste preferences
  • 1 tsp black pepper adjust according to taste preferences
  • 2 tbsp honey maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes omit for a milder version or adjust to preference
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tbsp butter can be substituted with plant-based butter for dairy-free needs
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative
  • 2 cups milk use unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free version
  • 1 cup heavy cream use coconut cream for dairy-free version
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for dairy-free, use vegan cheese
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese can substitute with another cheese type
  • 1 tsp garlic powder fresh equivalents can be used
  • 1 tsp onion powder fresh equivalents can be used
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Colander
  • whisk
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, sauté for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Let rest and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Return the chicken to the skillet over low heat. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of honey and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to coat and warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, cooking until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic and onion powder.
  6. Reduce heat to low and add 1 cup of mozzarella and 1 cup of cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni and honey-glazed chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.
  8. Preheat your oven to broil. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, optionally adding more cheese on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  9. Remove from oven, let sit for a couple of minutes, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to monitor cooking times and temperatures to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Customize the spiciness based on your taste preferences.

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