Description
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of rich, velvety cheese sauce, tender chicken, and a touch of sweetness from honey, balanced by a hint of peppery spice. This comforting dish promises to impress at family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its irresistible flavor combination, it elevates any meal into an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/3 cup pure honey
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and slice.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for about 2 minutes.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in milk while whisking until thickened; add shredded cheeses until melted.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in cooked pasta, sliced chicken, honey, and black pepper until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian option, omit chicken and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead. Adjust black pepper to taste for desired spice level. Add steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.