Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese: A Cozy Weeknight Dinner Delight
As the days grow shorter and the evenings invite us to gather around the table, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a generous bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese. This dish resonates with warmth, nostalgia, and that golden, creamy goodness that hugs you from the inside out. Growing up, mac and cheese was not just a meal; it was a ritual. My family would gather, laughter filling the kitchen, as we savored every cheesy bite, creating memories that would linger long after the plates were cleared.
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is perfect for those easy weeknight dinners. With its tender chicken, the sweetness of honey, and the spice of pepper dancing among the creamy pasta, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Preparation: Quick and simple, this recipe gets dinner on the table in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and sweet honey is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser.
Comforting and Creamy: Indulge in the cozy embrace of this rich mac and cheese, transforming your dinner table into a warm, inviting space.
Customizable Ingredients: Make it your own with easy variations and add-ins, allowing you to keep it fresh every time.
Perfectly Balanced: The balance of sweet and savory compliments the richness of the macaroni and cheese, elevating a simple meal into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
Let’s embark on this cozy cooking adventure together! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni, milk, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
In a separate pan, cook the chicken tenders until golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, drizzle the honey and sprinkle the pepper over the chicken, mixing well to coat.
Assemble the dish by combining the honey pepper chicken with the mac and cheese.
If desired, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until golden.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is a winner, you might enjoy giving this dish your unique spin with these fun variations:
Zesty Lemon Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for a bright contrast to the creamy cheese and honey.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery version that’ll warm your soul.
Veggie Delight: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach for a fresh, vibrant pop of green and added nutrition.
Indulgent Truffle: Drizzle your finished dish with truffle oil for a rich, decadent flavor that’s sure to impress your guests.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To ensure your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips from my kitchen to yours:
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the oven and add the chicken right before serving!
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Slicing Tricks: For easy slicing of cooked chicken tenders, let them rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps the juices in and makes them extra tender.
Storage Suggestions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s inside this delicious meal to keep you informed:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.
Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Swap out the chicken for turkey or a plant-based alternative, and experiment with different cheeses.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
When properly stored, Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese can last in the fridge for up to 3 days and in the freezer for about a month.
Wrapping It Up
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience waiting to happen. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or delightful gatherings with friends. Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you’re ready to whip up this comforting treat whenever the craving strikes! Enjoy every tender bite, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and love!
Print
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A warm and comforting Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni, milk, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- In a separate pan, cook the chicken tenders until golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, drizzle the honey and sprinkle the pepper over the chicken, mixing well to coat.
- Assemble the dish by combining the honey pepper chicken with the mac and cheese.
- If desired, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to make variations by adding veggies or using different types of cheese.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, chicken, comfort food, weeknight dinner, pasta