Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on two classic comfort foods—mac and cheese and crispy chicken—with a sweet and spicy kick. The creamy, cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with crispy chicken pieces drizzled in sticky, hot honey that adds just the right balance of heat and sweetness.
I love making this when I want something cozy but a little exciting. The hot honey glaze is what really makes this dish stand out—it’s simple to make but adds such a great flavor punch. I sometimes add a little extra honey on top for friends who prefer it sweeter, and it never fails to bring smiles around the table.
This dish is great as a filling dinner on a chilly night or for a weekend meal when you want to impress without too much fuss. I like to serve it with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that tastes even better as leftovers the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni or cavatappi work well because their shape holds onto the cheese sauce nicely. If you want, penne or shells are good substitutes.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, and mozzarella adds gooey creaminess. You can try gouda or Monterey Jack if preferred.
Chicken: Thighs stay juicy and flavorful when cooked, but breasts work fine too. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep tenderness.
Hot Honey: The mix of honey and hot sauce is simple but key. Adjust the heat with more or less hot sauce or swap sriracha for chili garlic sauce for a different kick.
How Do You Make a Smooth, Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Making a good cheese sauce starts with a roux—melting butter and whisking in flour. Cook this briefly to avoid a raw flour taste. Slowly add warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Keep the heat medium and stir constantly until it thickens and bubbles.
- Turn heat to low before adding cheese to stop it from becoming grainy.
- Add cheese in small batches, stirring gently until melted.
- Season with garlic and onion powder to deepen flavor.
This technique creates a smooth sauce that hugs your pasta perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I like using it to boil the pasta easily and quickly.
- Medium saucepan – useful for making the cheese sauce and hot honey drizzle.
- Whisk – helps you stir the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the seasoned chicken until crispy.
- Measuring spoons and cups – make sure you add the right amount of ingredients.
- Serving bowls – for presenting your delicious mac and cheese and chicken.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding bacon bits or crispy pancetta for extra smoky flavor.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack or Gruyère for a unique twist.
- Add sautéed veggies such as bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.
- Spice it up more with a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne in the cheese sauce.
Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hot Honey Drizzle and Garnish:
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (like sriracha or your favorite)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hot honey chicken mac and cheese takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It includes cooking the pasta, making a creamy cheese sauce, pan-frying the spicy chicken, and preparing the sweet and spicy honey drizzle. A quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the macaroni or cavatappi pasta and cook following the package instructions until just tender (al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color—this is your roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly so it thickens without lumps. Once the sauce bubbles and thickens, add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Turn the heat to low and slowly mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Finally, add the cooked pasta and gently stir to coat everything in the creamy cheese sauce. Keep the sauce warm on low heat while you cook the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until it is fully cooked and develops a nice char, about 6 to 8 minutes.
4. Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle:
Warm the honey gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in your chosen hot sauce until it’s well combined. This sweet and spicy mixture will add a delicious kick to your chicken.
5. Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the cheesy mac and cheese into bowls. Top with the crispy, spiced chicken pieces. Drizzle the hot honey mixture evenly over the chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful blend of creamy cheese, spicy chicken, and sweet heat!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mac and cheese and cook the chicken separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, then drizzle with fresh hot honey before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, stir occasionally to help the cheese sauce stay creamy. You might want to add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! Reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce if you prefer less heat, or add more for extra kick. You can also experiment with milder hot sauces or leave out the cayenne altogether for a sweeter dish.