This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish that combines rich, cheesy pasta with crispy fried chicken glazed in a sweet-spicy honey-pepper sauce. With tender macaroni smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and topped with golden, sticky bites of seasoned chicken—it’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or whenever you need something indulgent yet easy to love.
A bold twist on two American classics—now in one bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥘 Crispy Chicken Base: Fried to golden perfection and coated in a glossy pepper-honey glaze.
- 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Cheddar and mozzarella blend into a thick, creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.
- 🍯 Sweet & Spicy Swirl: Honey, cracked black pepper, and optional red flakes create a flavor explosion.
- ⏱️ One-Pan Wonder: The cheese sauce comes together quickly—no boiling, no straining.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at potlucks, casual get-togethers, or school lunches.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts , cut into bite-sized pieces (or tenders for shortcut)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice for soaking)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for sensitive diets)
- 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for deeper flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (or avocado oil for high-heat cooking)
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- ⅓ cup (80ml) honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper (freshly ground for best aroma)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional – add more for extra heat)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or penne, cavatappi, or gluten-free pasta)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free sauce)
- 2 cups whole milk (or oat/almond milk for lighter version)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream for plant-based richness)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Gouda for milder melt)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or goat cheese for tangy finish)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic)
- ½ tsp onion powder (or finely chopped caramelized onions for depth)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro , chopped
- Extra black pepper or sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Chicken
In a bowl, submerge chicken pieces in buttermilk and refrigerate for 20 minutes to 2 hours .
This tenderizes the meat and adds moisture before frying.
Step 2: Coat & Fry Crispy Chicken
In a shallow bowl, mix:
- Flour, paprika, salt, and pepper .
Dip each piece of chicken in the mixture, shaking off excess.
In a skillet over medium-high heat , fry chicken in batches until golden and crisp (4–5 minutes per side ).
Drain on paper towels while preparing the glaze.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine:
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Cracked black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes , stirring constantly until thickened slightly.
Remove from heat and toss warm chicken in the glaze until fully coated.
Set aside while making the mac and cheese.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente (7–9 minutes ).
Drain and return to the pot.
Step 5: Build the Cheesy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat , melt butter .
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream , stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Once thickened, stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese , garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Pour cheese sauce over cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve Warm & Loaded
Ladle mac and cheese into bowls.
Top generously with honey-glazed chicken .
Garnish with:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- A sprinkle of black pepper or sesame seeds
Each bite brings together:
- Silky, golden cheese sauce pockets
- Crispy, sticky honey pepper chicken
- Tender, saucy macaroni layers
- And that classic comfort-food charm
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temp Chicken: Helps glaze adhere better—toss while still warm.
- 🥣 No Lumpy Sauce: Whisk constantly when adding dairy to the roux.
- 🥟 Pasta Tip: Don’t overcook macaroni—it should be firm enough to hold the sauce.
- 🧁 Glaze Hack: Add a splash of lime or hot sauce to the glaze for extra zing.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Reheat chicken and sauce separately—combine just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with coleslaw, pickles, or grilled vegetables for contrast.
- Great with beer, lemon water, or a cold glass of iced tea.
- Ideal for casual dinners, lunch boxes, or late-night cravings .
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):
(With regular cheese and chicken – per plate)
- Calories: ~600 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~35g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~10g
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese proves that comfort food doesn’t have to choose between savory and spicy—it can be both. With its gooey cheese base, crispy chicken crunch, and bold honey finish—it’s a must-bake for lovers of hearty, comforting handhelds.
Additional Notes:
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or seitan for chicken, vegan cheese, and plant-based milk for sauce.
- Low-Fat Swap: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk + flour slurry .
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container—reheat gently with extra milk if needed.
- Flavor Hack: Stir ½ tsp Worcestershire or hot sauce into the cheese sauce for depth.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble unbaked portions and refrigerate—bake fresh when ready.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch , top with crushed crackers or fried onions before baking.
Serving Idea: Serve in bread bowls or puff pastry shells for a gourmet twist.
History Fun: This recipe blends Southern fried chicken , classic mac and cheese , and sweet-hot Asian-inspired glaze —a modern fusion of global comfort flavors.
