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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of sweet honey balanced perfectly with freshly cracked black pepper. This warm, cheesy pasta is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1–2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided: 1 tablespoon for chicken, 2 tablespoons for sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 cup milk

Variations (Optional)

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for added spice
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach
  • Substitute sharp cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
  • Gluten-free pasta instead of elbow macaroni
  • Maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package directions, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the heavy cream and milk, allowing the mixture to warm gently. Gradually stir in the sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce. Add honey and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, whisking until perfectly combined and creamy.
  4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the cheese sauce and stir in the drained macaroni. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta and chicken is coated with the luscious honey pepper cheese sauce.
  5. Serve Immediately: Plate your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight right away while it’s warm and dreamy. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or extra cracked pepper for a fresh final touch.

Notes

  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for maximum flavor and kick.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; maintain an al dente texture to prevent mushiness.
  • Choose good-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best depth of flavor.
  • Adjust honey and pepper gradually to balance sweetness and spice to your taste.
  • Warm the cream and milk mixture before adding cheese to ensure a silky, lump-free sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, mac and cheese, creamy, honey, black pepper, comfort food, easy dinner, one-pot

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/creamy-honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese-delight/