Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be rich creamy pasta tangled with a punch of cheese and layered with crispy chicken glistening in a sweet peppery sauce. The touch of bacon and fragrance of fresh basil take it over the top. Every bite is a little celebration which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to spoil someone you love

My husband swears there is nothing better than the combo of golden chicken and sticky honey pepper sauce over creamy pasta When I set this on the table the whole family races to grab a fork

Ingredients

• spiral noodles: I go for the freshest box or try a specialty brand for real bite they hold onto sauce better
• breaded chicken strips: freezer aisle chicken that bakes up crisp and golden look for brands with simple ingredients
• bacon: smoky strips crisped and crumbled for texture and a dose of umami
• salt and pepper: the basics to sharpen and round out flavors use fresh cracked pepper for best taste
• basil: fresh leaves brighten up the richness and make the plate pop
• honey: this is the soul of the sauce choose a mild floral honey for complexity
• light brown sugar: backs up the honey and makes the sauce glossy
• soy sauce: low sodium version keeps things balanced and not too salty
• pineapple juice: this sneaky ingredient gives the sauce zing and depth
• lemon juice: fresh squeezed adds a real pop
• vinegar: a bit for tang which brings all the flavors up
• black pepper: plenty for a little bite
• cayenne: the pinch that brings the heat adjust to your taste
• butter: builds the base of the cheese sauce look for real butter only
• heavy cream: creates velvet texture use fresh if possible not ultra pasteurized
• parmesan: shredded from a wedge is best for nutty sharpness
• mozzarella: freshly shredded melts smoother than prebagged
• colby jack cheese: for creaminess and a gentle tang choose blocks for best melt
• minced garlic: important for savory depth use fresh minced
• fresh basil: sometimes I double up for that summery flavor all through the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Cook the chicken strips according to package directions you can bake or fry them for that perfect crisp Once done set aside to cool slightly before saucing

Boil the Noodles:

Fill a deep pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil Add spiral noodles cook until al dente which keeps them springy not mushy Drain thoroughly

Make the Honey Pepper Sauce:

Combine honey brown sugar soy sauce pineapple juice lemon juice vinegar pepper and cayenne in a small saucepan Heat over medium stirring until it bubbles Turn the heat down and simmer for at least 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly Set aside to cool

Cheese Sauce Base:

In a large pan melt the butter over medium and stir until foaming Pour in heavy cream and bring almost to a simmer Gradually sprinkle in each cheese a handful at a time stirring completely between each addition Lower heat as needed to keep it creamy Stir in garlic then taste and season with salt and pepper

Coat the Pasta:

Add the drained noodles directly to the cheese sauce Toss everything to coat every piece well Fold in crumbled bacon for that smoky crunch

Sauce the Chicken:

Dip those crisp chicken strips in the honey pepper sauce Use tongs or your hands to coat each piece thoroughly

Assemble and Garnish:

Spoon cheesy pasta onto plates Top with honey pepper chicken Trick it out with extra bacon bits and plenty of torn basil for freshness

Pin

My favorite part of this dish is how the sauce sticks to every curl of noodle There is always a moment at the table where someone takes a first bite sighs and asks for the recipe That to me is pure joy

Storage Tips

Wrap up any leftovers in a sealed container and stash in the fridge They reheat beautifully with a splash of milk in the microwave If you want to freeze do so before adding chicken on top to keep the coating crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping out breaded chicken for grilled if you want less crunch but piles of flavor Gluten free versions of pasta and chicken strips work perfectly For extra veggies toss in a handful of baby spinach before serving or use turkey bacon for a lighter touch

Serving Suggestions

Serve this as a stand alone dinner It shines with a crisp side salad or a big platter of roasted broccoli For an extra crowd pleaser moment pile everything in a cast iron skillet and broil for two minutes to get a bubbly brown cheese crust on top

Cultural and Historical Context

Mac and cheese is a true American comfort classic Perfected over generations it is a dish that always means celebration and togetherness Honey pepper chicken brings in sweet southern flair which adds a charming twist I have made versions of this for birthdays snow days and just because days and it never gets old

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make the chicken crispy?

Bake or fry breaded chicken strips according to package instructions until golden and crunch is achieved before tossing in honey pepper sauce.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, swap spiral noodles with your favorite pasta such as penne, shells, or elbows to suit the sauce and texture preferences.

→ How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?

Melt butter first, add heavy cream, then slowly incorporate cheeses, stirring constantly for a silky, lump-free sauce.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and breaded chicken strips made with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

→ Can I prepare elements ahead of time?

Yes, cook chicken and bacon in advance. Store separately, then assemble with fresh cheese sauce and pasta just before serving.

→ What can I use as a garnish?

Fresh basil and extra bacon bits provide color, aroma, and added crunch. Chopped parsley also works well for a finishing touch.