the Absolute Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese
A decadent fusion of creamy four-cheese pasta topped with crispy breaded chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy honey pepper glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
16 oz cavatappi or spiral pasta
1.5 lbs chicken breast, bite-sized
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder & smoked paprika
3/4 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup butter
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
1 cup mozzarella, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan, shredded
1/2 cup colby jack, shredded
3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
1. Coat chicken in seasoned flour.
2. Fry chicken until golden and set aside.
3. Simmer honey, sugar, soy, juice, and pepper to thicken.
4. Boil pasta until al dente.
5. Melt butter and cream, whisk in cheeses until smooth.
6. Toss pasta in cheese sauce.
7. Coat chicken in honey glaze.
8. Top pasta with chicken and serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
Adjust cayenne for more or less heat.
Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the fridge.