When I first made this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe, I couldn’t believe how magical it was! The combination of sticky honey-glazed chicken with a hint of heat and perfectly creamy macaroni cheese was unforgettable.
I remember thinking this was the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and cheesy goodness. It’s indulgent, comforting, and so satisfying.
Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. Once you taste it, you’ll know why it’s become one of my go-to meals. Also, try our Garlic Bread Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe for busy weeknights.
Ingredients to Build This Incredible Meal
This recipe relies on simple ingredients that create a big impact. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (ensure they’re tender for even cooking)
- ½ cup honey (brings the perfect sweetness to balance the spice)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (adds a salty, umami depth to the glaze)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (cuts through the sweetness beautifully)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (for earthy warmth)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (a must for savory flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (enhances the glaze’s complexity)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adds the punch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (keeps the chicken golden and juicy while searing)
For the Macaroni Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for a rich roux base)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (thickens the sauce to velvety perfection)
- 2 cups whole milk (adds the creamy element for a luscious sauce)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (provides bold, cheesy flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully to create a stretchy, gooey texture)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (complements the cheese perfectly)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (adds a subtle depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste (balance the flavors to your liking)
Note: This recipe makes enough to serve 4 hearty portions. You can double it for a larger family or leftovers!
How to Customize This Dish?
This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own with these fun variations:
- Protein Swap: Crispy tofu, plump shrimp, or even roasted cauliflower can replace the chicken for a twist.
- Veggie Packed: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, steamed broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour in the cheese sauce for a celiac-friendly option.
- Mild Flavors: Skip the cayenne, and reduce the black pepper slightly for less spice.
Add variety to your menu with our creative dinner recipes.
Cooking Time to Get This on the Table
This recipe is quick and easy to pull together for dinner! Here’s the timing breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Tools You’ll Need to Make This Dish Easier
Gather these tools before you start cooking to make the process smooth:
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the glaze.
- Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the rich cheese sauce.
- Skillet: To sear the chicken and lock in the flavors.
- Baking Dish: For finishing the glazed chicken in the oven.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese?
Creating this dish is a straightforward and enjoyable process!
Step 1. Marinate the Chicken
Mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a bowl. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the meat.
Step 2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, setting the remaining liquid aside. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and caramelized but not fully cooked. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3. Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in the flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, followed by the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
Step 4. Cook the Pasta
Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated.
Step 5. Glaze and Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken in a baking dish and pour the reserved marinade over it. Bake for 20 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and shiny.
Step 6. Assemble and Serve
Spoon the creamy macaroni cheese onto plates and top with the sweet and spicy chicken. Drizzle some extra glaze over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Tips to Make This Dish Even Better
After perfecting this dish, here are a few of my favorite tricks to ensure it turns out flawless every time:
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain the juices and keeps it ultra-tender.
- Taste the Sauce: Always taste the cheese sauce while cooking to adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Whisk Frequently: Whisk constantly while making the roux to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Basting is Key: Don’t skip basting the chicken while it bakes. It’s the secret to the perfectly sticky, flavorful glaze.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese?
Presentation matters, and making this dish look as irresistible as it tastes is easy:
- Show-Stopping Platter: Serve the macaroni on a plate with the chicken sliced and fanned out on top. Drizzle any extra glaze for a professional-looking presentation.
- Garnish Beautifully: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, green onions, or a hint of cayenne for visual flair.
- Pair It Up: Pair with a simple green salad, Baked Sausage Ricotta Pasta, or warm garlic bread to round out the meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutrients per serving of this indulgent dish:
- Calories: 850
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 45g
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish works wonderfully for meal prep or storing leftovers!
Make Ahead
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The cheese sauce can also be prepped and kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the macaroni gently in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing
Freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven with some extra glaze for freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, and here’s why it’s guaranteed to impress:
- Bursting with Flavor: The sweet, spicy, and cheesy combination is a delicious balance that keeps you coming back for more.
- Simple Yet Fancy: It’s quick and easy to make yet feels like an elevated dining experience.
- Kid and Adult Approved: Kids adore the creamy pasta, while adults love the bold glaze on the chicken.
- Customizable: Adjust it to suit your spice tolerance or dietary preferences with ease.
- Perfectly Balanced Meal: Protein, carbs, and tons of flavor wrapped in one comforting dish.
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese will win hearts at your dinner table. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share it with someone who loves a good comfort meal!
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a bowl. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, setting the remaining liquid aside. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and caramelized but not fully cooked. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in the flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, followed by the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken in a baking dish and pour the reserved marinade over it. Bake for 20 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and shiny.
- Spoon the creamy macaroni cheese onto plates and top with the sweet and spicy chicken. Drizzle some extra glaze over the chicken for added flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.