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Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Savor Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac

Experience the delightful blend of flavors in Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese, a comforting embrace on a plate.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken 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.
Mac and Cheese Ingredients
  • 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.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil, allowing it to warm for about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with ground black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt.
  3. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Using the same skillet, lower the heat and add honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir as it simmers for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Allow the glaze to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, coating fully.
  7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
  8. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux.
  9. Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps, cooking for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
  10. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until melted and smooth. Season with ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  11. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
  12. Plate the chicken alongside the creamy mac and cheese and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving. Store leftovers in airtight containers for optimal texture preservation.

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