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–+ servings
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese That'll Wow Your Family

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese elevates comfort food with a delightful flavor fusion, making it perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Spiral Noodles Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Breaded Chicken Strips Swap for grilled chicken if desired.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Honey Maple syrup can work as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar White sugar is an alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice Apple juice can work in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Vinegar can serve as a substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Cayenne can increase the heat.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter base.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Milk can be used for a lighter alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is a great choice.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Provolone is a tasty substitute.
  • 1 cup Colby Jack Cheese Cheddar is also delicious.
For the Garnish
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 4 slices Bacon Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter dish.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Use parsley for a different herb touch.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Chicken: Cook the breaded chicken strips according to package instructions, about 20 minutes at 400°F until golden brown.
  2. Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, add spiral noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make Honey Pepper Sauce: Combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a saucepan. Boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until thick.
  4. Create Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a skillet, stir in heavy cream, then gradually add cheeses and minced garlic. Season to taste.
  5. Combine: Add drained pasta to cheese sauce, toss to coat, and fold in crumbled bacon for crunch.
  6. Finish: Coat chicken strips in honey pepper sauce, serve over pasta, and garnish with basil and extra bacon.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider making the cheese sauce a day ahead to save time. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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