Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is such a fantastic combo—sweet and peppery chicken paired with rich, gooey macaroni and cheese. The chicken is glazed with a sticky honey pepper sauce that adds the perfect punch, while the macaroni is baked until creamy and tender, making every bite super comforting.
I love making this meal when I want something that feels special but is easy to put together. The honey pepper sauce is simple to make but packs a lot of flavor, and the macaroni cheese always turns out creamy and cheesy without much fuss. I usually double the sauce because it’s so good drizzled over the pasta too!
When I serve this, I like to add a fresh green salad or steamed veggies on the side to balance the richness. It’s a meal that always gets smiles around the table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or weekend treat. I think you’ll find yourself coming back to this one again and again because it’s just plain tasty and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This pasta is classic for mac and cheese because it holds the sauce well. You can swap it for penne or shells if you want a different shape.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, while mozzarella adds creaminess. If you can’t find cheddar, try Colby or a mild Gouda. For mozz, Monterey Jack is a good alternative.
Chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs work here. Thighs stay juicier and more forgiving if you’re new to cooking chicken. For even faster prep, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option.
Honey & Black Pepper: Honey adds sweetness that balances the pepper’s heat. If you prefer a different sweetener, maple syrup or agave work well too.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Glazed and Juicy?
The honey pepper glaze is key to bringing flavor and shine to your chicken. Here’s how I like to do it:
- Toss chicken with oil and spices first to coat evenly.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust. Don’t crowd the pan, so the chicken sears instead of steams.
- Once cooked, drizzle honey in the pan and toss the chicken quickly. The honey caramelizes fast, giving the chicken a sticky glaze without burning.
- Remove promptly to prevent overcooking and dryness.
This method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, with a beautiful balance of sweet and peppery. Just keep an eye on the heat when adding honey, as it can burn if left too long.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – Perfect for boiling the macaroni quickly and easily.
- Medium saucepan – For making the cheese sauce; it helps control heat and prevent spillage.
- Whisk – To stir the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Skillet or frying pan – For cooking and glazing the chicken; a broad surface helps with even cooking.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – To flip the chicken and toss it in the honey glaze.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweet touch—great for variety and different flavor profiles.
- Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the creamy mac and cheese for extra color and nutrients.
- Use different cheeses such as pepper Jack or Parmesan for a sharper or nuttier flavor.
- Incorporate spices like cayenne or chili flakes in the chicken rub if you like a little heat.
Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Macaroni Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 30 minutes from start to serving. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain the macaroni and set it aside while you make the cheese sauce.
2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix Macaroni and Cheese:
Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce and stir well until the pasta is fully coated and creamy.
4. Cook and Glaze the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, ground black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Drizzle honey over the chicken in the pan and toss gently to coat, letting the honey caramelize and glaze the chicken for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the honey.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the creamy macaroni cheese, then top with the honey pepper chicken pieces. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to add color and freshness.
Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry before seasoning to help it brown nicely in the pan.
Can I Make the Macaroni Cheese Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the macaroni cheese sauce and pasta a day ahead, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and macaroni cheese in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the macaroni cheese slowly to avoid drying out and warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This meal pairs well with simple steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, or a fresh side salad to balance the richness.