Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a delicious combo that brings together sweet, spicy chicken and rich, cheesy pasta. The chicken gets a nice glaze from honey and a little kick from cracked black pepper, making every bite full of flavor. Meanwhile, the macaroni cheese is super creamy and comforting, perfect for balancing out the boldness of the chicken.
I love making this meal when I want something that feels special but isn’t complicated. The honey and pepper on the chicken are such a simple way to add a lot of taste, and the creamy macaroni feels like a little hug on the side. I usually toss a few extra pepper flakes on top if I want a bit more heat, and it’s always a hit with anyone who tries it.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to add a fresh crunch. It’s the kind of meal that fills you up and makes you smile, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. I always find myself looking forward to the leftovers the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using thighs for juiciness, but breasts work fine too. If you want a leaner option, turkey cutlets can be a great substitute. Just make sure to adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well as alternatives.
Black Pepper & Chili Flakes: Fresh cracked black pepper really stands out here. For more heat, add extra chili flakes or swap them for cayenne pepper. Adjust to your taste!
Macaroni Cheese: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta like cavatappi or shells will hold the sauce nicely. For cheese, sharp cheddar brings boldness, balanced by a mild cheese like mozzarella for creaminess. Feel free to swap cheeses depending on what you have on hand.
Milk & Butter: Whole milk gives a rich sauce, but you can use 2% or even plant-based milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Butter can be replaced with vegan margarine if needed.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Caramelized Without Burning the Honey?
The honey can burn quickly if the heat’s too high, so manage your stove carefully:
- Start with a medium-high heat to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Keep an eye on the chicken and turn often to prevent dark spots from becoming burnt.
- The honey will caramelize and create a nice glaze—if it starts smoking, lower the heat immediately.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan to stop sticking and make flipping easier.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches helps the chicken cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
Patience is key here—cook the chicken fully and let the honey do its magic. The result is tender chicken with a slightly crisp, sweet, and peppery coating.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use this to cook the pasta easily and quickly.
- Large skillet or grill pan – perfect for searing the chicken and getting a good caramelized glaze.
- Whisk and saucepan – these help you melt and mix the cheese sauce smoothly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to accurately measure honey, spices, and liquids for the best results.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – for mixing pasta with cheese sauce and turning the chicken in the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Add a dash of soy sauce or sriracha to the sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Mix in cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
- Use a mix of cheeses like pepper jack or Parmesan for different flavor profiles and extra richness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander to drain the pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- Whisk for stirring the sauce to keep it smooth
- Large skillet or grill pan for cooking the chicken
- Measuring spoons and cups for ingredients
- Stirring spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowls
Variations & Tips
- Protein swaps: Try shrimp, tofu, or turkey in place of chicken for a different twist.
- Cheese blends: Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for richer flavor.
- Extra veggies: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers into the macaroni cheese for more color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade or cheese sauce for a spicier version.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and vegan cheese to make a dairy-free creamy macaroni cheese.
- Make it crispy: After mixing macaroni with cheese sauce, sprinkle breadcrumbs and bake for 15 minutes for a crunchy topping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures it marinates properly with the honey and spices.
How Can I Make the Macaroni Cheese Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a vegan cheese alternative. Also, replace butter with a plant-based margarine or oil. The sauce may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can cook the macaroni cheese and the chicken ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to prevent drying out, and stir occasionally for even warming.
