Name: Savor Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts (Substitutes: Chicken thighs for juicier results.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Cooking fat for sautéing; adds richness and aids browning.); 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper (Adds spice; foundational heat for the glaze.); 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (Infuses smoky depth; balances sweetness of honey.); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Provides savory aroma; enhances dish flavor.); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Adds mild sweet onion flavor to glaze.); 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (Provides a mild kick; adjust for more heat.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor; crucial for seasoning.); 0.5 cup Honey (Provides sweet, sticky glaze; balances spiciness.); 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar (Adds acidity to cut sweetness; tangy flavor.); 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (Contributes umami flavor; deepens glaze's savory notes.); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (Offers sharpness to glaze; enhances complexity.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.); 2 cups Elbow macaroni (Pasta for mac and cheese; holds cheese sauce well.); 2 cups Whole milk (Base for cheese sauce; creates creamy texture.); 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese (Sharp, tangy flavor; classic for mac and cheese.); 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (Adds gooey texture; enhances creaminess.); 1 teaspoon Ground mustard (Mild mustard flavor; enhances cheese sauce depth.); 2 tablespoons Flour (Thickening agent for cheese sauce; ensures smooth texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper (Adds mild heat; complements mac and cheese.)

“Have you ever craved depth of flavor in a single dish?” That’s the moment I captured when I first concocted my Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, blending the tender, perfectly glazed chicken with a luscious, creamy pasta that feels like a warm hug on a plate. What I adore most about this dish is how effortlessly it balances sweet, spicy, and savory elements, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to prepare, ensuring you can indulge in delicious homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to dive into this delightful fusion? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken brings a delightful balance of sweet and savory, topped with a sticky glaze that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

Creamy Comfort: Paired with Creamy Mac and Cheese, this dish offers that familiar richness that feels like a warm hug, perfect for any occasion.

Quick to Prepare: Enjoy a satisfying homemade dinner without the fuss—this recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes!

Family Approved: Ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds, just like my Chicken Bacon Cheese dish.

Customizable: With easy variations, feel free to swap chicken types or add vegetables for an extra nutrient boost, making it flexible for any dietary needs!

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Ingredients

• To recreate this mouthwatering dish, gather these flavorful ingredients for the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and Creamy Mac and Cheese!

For the Chicken Glaze

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Main protein; absorbs glaze flavors well. Substitutes: Chicken thighs for juicier results.
Olive oil – Cooking fat for sautéing; adds richness and aids browning.
Ground black pepper – Adds spice; foundational heat for the glaze.
Smoked paprika – Infuses smoky depth; balances sweetness of honey.
Garlic powder – Provides savory aroma; enhances dish flavor.
Onion powder – Adds mild sweet onion flavor to glaze.
Cayenne pepper – Provides a mild kick; adjust for more heat.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; crucial for seasoning.
Honey – Provides sweet, sticky glaze; balances spiciness.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds acidity to cut sweetness; tangy flavor.
Soy sauce – Contributes umami flavor; deepens glaze’s savory notes.
Dijon mustard – Offers sharpness to glaze; enhances complexity.
Butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.

For the Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni – Pasta for mac and cheese; holds cheese sauce well.
Whole milk – Base for cheese sauce; creates creamy texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp, tangy flavor; classic for mac and cheese.
Shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds gooey texture; enhances creaminess.
Ground mustard – Mild mustard flavor; enhances cheese sauce depth.
Flour – Thickening agent for cheese sauce; ensures smooth texture.
Black pepper – Adds mild heat; complements mac and cheese.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil, allowing it to warm for about 1-2 minutes. You’re aiming for a shimmering surface that indicates the oil is ready for searing. This sets the stage for perfectly browned Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the skillet heats up, take boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with ground black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to maximize flavor before placing the seasoned chicken into the skillet.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. After they’re cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you prepare the glaze.

Step 4: Create the Glaze
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir the mixture as it comes to a simmer, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The glaze needs to meld together, creating a sweet and tangy base that will beautifully coat your chicken.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Allow the glaze to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. You’ll notice it becoming stickier, which is perfect for ensuring your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken has a delicious coating when it’s added back to the skillet shortly.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and turn them to coat fully in the glaze. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sweet-spicy essence of the glaze.

Step 7: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
As the chicken simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes around 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside while you whip up the cheese sauce.

Step 8: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until it starts to bubble and turns a light golden color, which ensures that the floury taste cooks out of your creamy sauce.

Step 9: Thicken the Cheese Sauce
Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep whisking for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and resembles a smooth, creamy sauce. This will be the base for your rich and cheesy mac and cheese alongside the chicken.

Step 10: Add the Cheeses
Once you have achieved the right thickness, reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until they melt smoothly into the sauce, creating that velvety texture that complements the macaroni perfectly. Season with ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 11: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Mix the cooked elbow macaroni into the luscious cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated. You want that creamy goodness to envelop the pasta completely, creating a delightful side to accompany the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken.

Step 12: Serve Up Your Dish
Plate the chicken alongside the creamy mac and cheese, allowing the sticky glaze on the chicken to glisten invitingly. This hearty and comforting meal is now ready to be served, offering a delightful balance of flavors that will surely be a hit at your dinner table.

Storage Tips for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Keep the chicken and mac and cheese separated for optimal texture preservation.

Freezer: Both the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, and make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore creaminess. Enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors just as they were meant to be!

Expert Tips for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Proper Cooking Temperature: Ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Avoiding Soggy Mac: To prevent mac and cheese from becoming too watery, avoid overcooking the pasta and drain well before adding the cheese sauce.

Whisking Smoothly: For a rich cheese sauce, whisk the milk continuously while adding it to the roux to avoid lumps and ensure a silky texture.

Customizing Spice Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Remember, a little can go a long way in this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken!

Preparing in Advance: To save time, you can marinate the chicken in the glaze overnight for deeper flavor, making your weeknight dinner prep even quicker!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken glaze and season the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance—simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. The mac and cheese can also be made ahead, staying fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored separately from the chicken. When it’s time to serve, just cook the chicken in the glaze for about 10 minutes and reheat the mac and cheese on low heat, stirring gently to preserve that creamy texture. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring exciting variations that will tickle your taste buds!

Juicy Alternative: Swap boneless chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option that brings extra tenderness to each bite.
Cheese Variety: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack in your mac and cheese for additional flavor dimensions that add a delightful twist.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate vegetables such as steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach in the mac and cheese for a nutritious enhancement—your family will barely notice those greens!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken glaze for a burst of freshness; their aromatic qualities can elevate your dish to new heights.
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat level by adding more cayenne or even some red pepper flakes; just be mindful to achieve the perfect balance between sweet and fiery.
Creamy Swap: For a lighter variation, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream in the mac and cheese; it will still be creamy but with added health benefits.
Serving Style: Try serving the chicken on a bed of wilted greens instead of macaroni for a refreshing contrast that will tickle your taste buds while making the meal feel lighter.

Whatever you choose, each variation offers a new way to love your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese—just like my Sweet Chili Chicken for a different flavor profile or a comforting twist with Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne!

What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this comforting dish with flavors and textures that resonate with every bite.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables brings earthy flavors and vibrant color, adding texture and nutritional balance to your plate. Think sweet carrots and tender asparagus for that perfect bite.
Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese, enhancing the overall comfort food experience. Your family will appreciate this crisp contrast.
Garlicky Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic make for an irresistible side, perfect for soaking up the sticky honey glaze from the chicken. They’re hard to resist, and who doesn’t love a classic bread accompaniment?
Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These tiny veggies, caramelized just right, mirror the sweet notes of the chicken while adding a savory punch. Their slightly bitter edge balances the sweetness beautifully.
Sweet Corn Casserole: Creamy and slightly sweet, this casserole adds a delightful burst of flavor, enhancing the comfort aspect of the meal without overpowering the main dish.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet and spicy notes of the chicken while enhancing the overall dining experience. You’ll find this pairing to keep the evening softly refreshing.
Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm apple crisp drizzled with caramel sauce. Its sweet-spicy allure echoes the chicken’s glaze, closing the culinary journey on a high note.

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts, aim for pieces that are firm and plump with no dark spots or discoloration. If possible, look for chicken labeled as organic or free-range for better flavor and quality. If you want a juicier option, consider swapping them for chicken thighs, which are even more flavorful!

How can I store leftovers properly?
Very important! Store your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and Creamy Mac and Cheese in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To retain the best texture, keep them separated, as the mac and cheese can become soggy if left with the chicken.

Can I freeze this dish, and how?
Yes, you can! This dish freezes wonderfully for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let both the chicken and mac and cheese cool completely, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers. For best results, label the containers with the date and contents. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess of the mac and cheese.

What if my cheese sauce becomes lumpy?
If your cheese sauce ends up lumpy, don’t worry! Simply whisk it vigorously to break apart any clumps, or you can use an immersion blender to smooth it out. If it’s still too thick, gradually add more milk while whisking until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Remember to incorporate the cheese slowly to help keep the sauce smooth!

Is this dish suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy and gluten. If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can use lactose-free milk and alternative cheeses. For gluten-free options, swap elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta, and ensure all sauces and condiments are gluten-free. Always double-check labels for any hidden allergens!