Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering experience. This recipe brings together the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with crispy chicken strips coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. The contrast between the cheesy, savory pasta and the bold flavors of honey and pepper creates a truly irresistible meal.
The inspiration behind this recipe comes from a desire to elevate traditional comfort food by blending it with dynamic, bold flavors. Honey pepper sauce adds a sweet, tangy kick that perfectly complements the savory richness of the mac and cheese. By combining the familiar comfort of creamy pasta with the crispy texture of breaded chicken and the punch of the sauce, this dish creates a harmonious blend that is both indulgent and exciting. It’s a perfect way to turn a classic favorite into something memorable and special.
Ingredients Overview
For the Chicken and Pasta:
The base of this recipe starts with spiral noodles, a great choice for mac and cheese due to their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce in every curl. This shape ensures every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. You can use any pasta type you prefer, but spiral noodles are particularly ideal for catching all the sauce. Gluten-free or whole-grain pasta can easily be substituted for those with dietary preferences.
Breaded chicken strips provide the crispy, hearty protein element of the dish. Whether you bake or fry them, the goal is to have a crunchy exterior that contrasts with the creamy pasta. You can use store-bought breaded chicken for convenience or make your own. For added texture and flavor, crispy bacon crumbles are stirred into the pasta, giving it a smoky, salty kick. Fresh basil, used as an optional garnish, adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to brighten up the dish.
Seasoning with salt and pepper allows you to balance the flavors of the pasta and chicken, enhancing the richness without overpowering the dish. Optional customizations include using grilled or air-fried chicken for a healthier option or choosing a different pasta shape like penne or macaroni to switch up the texture.
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
The honey pepper sauce is where this dish gets its bold, dynamic flavor. A combination of honey, light brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper creates a sauce that balances sweetness, tanginess, and heat. The honey and brown sugar provide a sticky, caramelized sweetness, while the pineapple juice and lemon juice add a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese. Soy sauce brings umami depth, and the black pepper and cayenne deliver a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. This sauce adds an exciting layer of complexity to the dish, coating the crispy chicken in a flavorful glaze.
For the Cheese Sauce:
The cheese sauce is a rich and creamy blend of butter, heavy cream, and three types of cheese: Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack. The butter and cream create a velvety base, while each cheese adds its unique flavor and texture. Parmesan offers a salty, nutty undertone, mozzarella gives a gooey melt, and Colby Jack provides a mild creaminess that ties everything together. Minced garlic enhances the depth of the sauce, adding a subtle aromatic quality. You can experiment with different cheese blends, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyère, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
For this recipe, you can choose to bake or fry the breaded chicken strips, depending on your preference for convenience or crispiness. Baking is a healthier option, where the chicken strips are cooked in the oven until golden brown. To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the chicken strips on the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
Alternatively, frying gives a crunchier texture. Heat about an inch of oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the chicken strips until they are golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
For a healthier twist, you can also use grilled or air-fried chicken. Grilling will add a smoky flavor, while air-frying gives the chicken a crisp texture without needing much oil.
Step 2: Cooking the Pasta
Cooking the spiral noodles perfectly is crucial to ensure the pasta retains a firm texture and holds up well in the creamy cheese sauce. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spiral noodles and cook them al dente, according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. “Al dente” means the pasta should be firm but cooked through. This texture prevents the pasta from becoming too soft when mixed with the cheese sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set it aside.
Step 3: Making the Honey Pepper Sauce
The honey pepper sauce is where the sweet and spicy flavors come to life. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup of honey, ¼ cup of light brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup of pineapple juice, the juice of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir the mixture together until the sugar dissolves.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly as the flavors meld together. The honey provides sweetness, while the brown sugar adds depth and a caramel-like undertone. Pineapple juice and lemon juice cut through the sweetness with a bit of acidity, balancing the flavors. The soy sauce adds a savory umami kick, and the cayenne pepper brings just the right amount of heat.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can increase the amount of cayenne or add a pinch of chili flakes. For a milder version, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also experiment by swapping the pineapple juice for orange juice or apple juice for a different fruity note.
Step 4: Preparing the Cheese Sauce
A smooth, rich cheese sauce is key to any mac and cheese dish, and this recipe offers a creamy and flavorful base that complements the honey pepper chicken perfectly. Start by melting 1 stick of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly bubbling, stir in 2 cups of heavy cream. Let the cream warm up for a minute or two, ensuring it doesn’t boil, which could cause the sauce to separate.
Next, begin adding the cheeses gradually. Start with ½ cup of shredded Parmesan, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly. Follow with 1 cup of freshly shredded mozzarella, and finally, add ¾ cup of Colby Jack cheese. Each cheese brings a unique flavor and texture: Parmesan provides a salty, nutty flavor, mozzarella adds creaminess and that signature “stretch,” and Colby Jack gives a mild, creamy finish.
As the cheese melts into the warm cream, you’ll get a luscious, thick sauce. Be sure to keep stirring throughout the process to prevent any clumps. Once the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth, add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic for added depth and flavor. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
For variations, consider swapping Colby Jack for sharp cheddar to introduce a tangier flavor, or add a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the sauce with a subtle smokiness. Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly.
Step 5: Assembling the Mac and Cheese
Now that both the pasta and cheese sauce are ready, it’s time to combine them. Add the cooked spiral noodles to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every noodle is well-coated in the creamy mixture. The ridges of the spiral noodles will help trap the cheese sauce, making every bite indulgent.
To elevate the dish, stir in 5 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon. The crispy bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor and a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of the mac and cheese. At this stage, you can also mix in optional add-ins, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. These extra elements can give the dish more complexity and cater to personal tastes.
Step 6: Coating the Chicken with Honey Pepper Sauce
Once the chicken strips are cooked and crispy, it’s time to coat them in the flavorful honey pepper sauce. Take the chicken strips and dip each one into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. You can use tongs or a fork to fully immerse the strips into the sauce and allow the excess to drip off.
To keep the chicken crispy after coating, serve the dish immediately. If you want to maintain the crunch for longer, consider lightly brushing the sauce onto the chicken rather than fully submerging it. This way, the exterior remains crisp while still getting a punch of flavor.
For a different serving experience, you can drizzle extra honey pepper sauce over the chicken or the mac and cheese itself, providing an extra layer of flavor to the entire dish.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Garnishing
To assemble, place a generous portion of the cheesy mac and cheese on each plate. Arrange the honey pepper-coated chicken strips on top of the pasta. For garnish, sprinkle the dish with additional crumbled bacon or freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
You can also add fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and a subtle herbal freshness. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños can take the spice level up a notch. Personalize the presentation to make it as visually appealing as it is delicious!
Additional Tips and Suggestions
Customizing the Recipe
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences. For those who are gluten-free, simply substitute the spiral noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. There are plenty of options available, such as rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based pasta, which work well with the creamy cheese sauce.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the fried chicken strips, consider using grilled or air-fried chicken instead. Both methods reduce the fat content while still providing a deliciously crispy exterior.
For a lighter version of the cheese sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with low-fat milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. To make it completely dairy-free, opt for vegan cheese alternatives and dairy-free butter to maintain a rich, creamy consistency.
Additional toppings can further enhance the dish. Consider adding roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, caramelized onions for sweetness, or a crispy breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.
Pairing Ideas
To complement the richness of this dish, serve it alongside a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity will cut through the creamy and cheesy flavors, refreshing the palate. Alternatively, garlic bread pairs well with the cheesy pasta, or you can opt for roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a lighter side.
For beverages, a refreshing lemonade or a sparkling soda would be perfect to balance the sweet and spicy notes of the honey pepper sauce, while a glass of iced tea could also provide a cool, complementary sip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time. To keep the dish fresh, store the pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to prevent it from drying out, and warm it gently on the stove over low heat. For the chicken, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Reheat the honey pepper sauce separately and coat the chicken just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.
What other types of pasta work well with this recipe?
While spiral noodles work great for holding the cheese sauce, other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or macaroni can also be excellent substitutes. These pasta shapes have ridges or curves that will help capture the creamy sauce, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier or less spicy?
To adjust the spiciness, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper in the honey pepper sauce. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne or include chili flakes. To make it less spicy, reduce or omit the cayenne entirely and rely on the black pepper for mild heat.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover chicken works well in this recipe. Simply warm it up before coating it in the honey pepper sauce. Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken can add a smoky or savory flavor to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken strips with tofu or meatless chicken strips. You can also use breaded tempeh or even roasted vegetables as a flavorful and satisfying alternative.
Conclusion
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. The balance of flavors—from the richness of the cheese sauce to the kick of the honey pepper glaze—creates a satisfying, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is versatile and encourages creativity, so feel free to experiment with different pastas, proteins, or toppings to make it uniquely yours. Whether you stick to the original or add your personal touches, this dish is sure to impress and become a family favorite.
Print
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Author: Christine
Description
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Breaded chicken strips are tossed in a honey pepper glaze, then paired with creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy bacon, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 1 (16 oz) box spiral noodles
- 1 (25 oz) bag breaded chicken strips (baked or fried)
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
- ¾ cup honey
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- ¾ cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the chicken:
Cook the breaded chicken strips according to the package instructions, either by baking or frying them until crispy. Once done, set them aside.
2️⃣ Cook the pasta:
Boil the spiral noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the honey pepper sauce:
In a saucepan, combine ¾ cup honey, ¼ cup light brown sugar, 3 tbsp soy sauce, ¼ cup pineapple juice, lemon juice, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tsp black pepper, and ¼ tsp cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
4️⃣ Prepare the cheese sauce:
In a large pan, melt 1 stick butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 cups heavy cream and allow it to warm up. Gradually add ½ cup Parmesan, 1 cup mozzarella, and ¾ cup colby jack cheese, stirring after each addition until melted and smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Assemble the pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated. Stir in the crumbled bacon for added flavor.
6️⃣ Coat the chicken in honey pepper sauce:
Dip the cooked chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce, making sure they’re fully coated.
7️⃣ Serve:
Plate a generous portion of the cheesy pasta. Top it with the honey pepper chicken strips. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional bacon, if desired.
Notes
- Add extra spice: If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken with plant-based strips and omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.