Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe
Introduction to Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese
Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love? Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and cheesy goodness. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your household!
A Personal Story Behind My Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals that brought us together. One of my fondest memories is enjoying a creamy mac and cheese dish with a twist that my grandmother would whip up. As I experimented in the kitchen, I decided to put my own spin on this classic by adding honey pepper chicken. The result is a dish that not only honors my childhood memories but also introduces new flavors that everyone loves.
What Makes This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is the delightful combination of honey and pepper that creates a unique sauce for the chicken. The sweet and spicy profile pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce and pasta. Additionally, the crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that enhances the overall texture of the dish. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!
The Full Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz box spiral noodles
- 1 25 oz. bag breaded chicken strips
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Honey Pepper Sauce:
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Cheese Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- 3/4 cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded
- 2-3 cloves minced garlic
Instructions
- Preheat your oven as per the chicken strip package instructions for baking, or you can deep fry them for extra crispiness. Once cooked, set aside.
- Cook the spiral noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine all the Honey Pepper sauce ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- To prepare the cheese sauce, melt the butter and heavy cream together in a large pan over medium heat. Slowly add the cheeses one at a time, stirring until fully melted after each addition. Add the minced garlic and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in the large pan, mixing thoroughly. Add the crumbled bacon and stir until evenly distributed.
- Carefully dip each chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce until well coated, then set aside on a plate.
- When ready to serve, plate the pasta and top with the honey pepper chicken strips. Garnish with chopped basil and additional bacon, if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For variations, consider adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach to the mac and cheese for added nutrition. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the honey pepper sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese
Can I use homemade chicken strips?
Absolutely! Making your own chicken strips can add a fresh touch to the dish. Simply season and bake or fry your chicken as desired.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese before adding the chicken. Just thaw and reheat when ready to serve, then top with the chicken before enjoying.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 650
- Servings: 6
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box spiral noodles 16 oz
- 1 bag breaded chicken strips 25 oz
- 5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven as per the chicken strip package instructions for baking, or you can deep fry them for extra crispiness. Once cooked, set aside.
- Cook the spiral noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine all the Honey Pepper sauce ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- To prepare the cheese sauce, melt the butter and heavy cream together in a large pan over medium heat. Slowly add the cheeses one at a time, stirring until fully melted after each addition. Add the minced garlic and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in the large pan, mixing thoroughly. Add the crumbled bacon and stir until evenly distributed.
- Carefully dip each chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce until well coated, then set aside on a plate.
- When ready to serve, plate the pasta and top with the honey pepper chicken strips. Garnish with chopped basil and additional bacon, if desired.