Description
Ready for the ultimate comfort dish? This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight delivers a creamy, savory punch with a touch of honeyed heat. It’s an easy dinner idea that combines crispy peppered chicken with luscious cheese-coated pasta—ideal for cozy nights or impressive food ideas for guests. Whether you need a hearty lunch or quick family-friendly dinner, this dish satisfies. Think gooey cheese, a touch of sweetness, and golden, crispy bites in every forkful.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Oil for frying
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For the Mac and Cheese:
12 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk with salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix flour, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Coat chicken and fry until golden. Drain.
- In a saucepan, simmer honey, pepper, soy sauce, and vinegar for the sauce.
- Cook pasta according to package. Drain and set aside.
- Make a roux with butter and flour, whisk in milk and cream, then add cheeses. Stir until smooth.
- Mix cheese sauce with pasta. Top with chicken and drizzle with honey pepper sauce.