How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese, but with a unique, flavorful twist! This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight combines tender chicken, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a touch of sweetness from honey with a subtle heat from black pepper. This dish is the perfect balance of comfort and excitement, bringing new life to a classic favorite.

It’s a one-pan wonder, quick to prepare, and sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or serving a crowd, this mac and cheese will hit all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Creamy: A velvety cheese sauce that coats each bite of pasta perfectly.
Sweet & Savory: The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, balanced with the peppery kick.
Easy to Make: A simple recipe that comes together quickly, with minimal cleanup.
Versatile: Can be served as a main course or a hearty side dish.
Comfort Food with a Twist: Takes the traditional mac and cheese to a whole new level.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup reduced-fat milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the milk, cream cheese, honey, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the cheddar cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and fully combined.

Combine Pasta and Chicken

1. Add the cooked macaroni and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Serve & Garnish

1. Serve the mac and cheese warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 400 | Carbs: 40g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option.
• Make it Extra Creamy: If you like a thicker sauce, you can add an extra ounce of cream cheese or use a bit of grated Parmesan.
• Add Veggies: You can toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Option: If you love a little more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Leftovers: This recipe makes great leftovers, and it can be reheated in the microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced Flavors: The combination of honey and black pepper provides the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
• Creamy and Rich: The cheese sauce is velvety smooth, making every bite feel indulgent.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or meal prep.
• Protein-Packed: With chicken as the star, this dish is not only delicious but also a good source of lean protein.

This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The rich, creamy cheese sauce, paired with tender chicken and a touch of honey and pepper, creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.

Serve it for dinner, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. No matter how you serve it, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!