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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

A comforting and flavorful twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring honey-glazed chicken and a creamy cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Boil water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well coated.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Reduce heat to low, pour in the honey, and let it coat the chicken for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
  6. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Pour in the milk gradually, whisking vigorously until the mixture thickens slightly.
  8. Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  9. Fold the cooked macaroni and honey-glazed chicken into the cheese sauce until everything is well coated.
  10. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sautéed vegetables. Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy chicken, comfort food, family meal