Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Let me introduce you to pure comfort in a bowl: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Imagine tender spirals of pasta wrapped in a velvety cheese sauce, then crowned with golden, sweet-and-spicy glazed chicken strips and a scattering of crisp bacon. Every forkful is a harmony of creamy, savory, and just the right kiss of sticky-sweet heat. This is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something unforgettable—and I can’t wait for you to experience it.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the decadent results fool you—Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese comes together with everyday ingredients that work magic when combined. Each element brings its own burst of flavor, from creamy cheeses and crispy bacon to the punchy honey pepper sauce that ties it all together. Here’s what makes this recipe so irresistible:

• Spiral noodles (16 oz): These curvy pasta shapes hold onto all that cheesy sauce—go for rotini or cavatappi for the best results.
• Breaded chicken strips (25 oz): Ready-made chicken is tossed in homemade honey pepper glaze, making prep a breeze without sacrificing flavor.
• Bacon (5 slices, cooked & crumbled): A handful of crispy bacon crumbles brings smoky, salty crunch to every bite.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple, but essential for perfect seasoning in every layer.
• Fresh Basil: Adds brightness and a touch of fresh herbal magic on top.
• Honey: The base of your sticky-sweet glaze that’s totally crave-worthy.
• Light Brown Sugar: Gives the sauce complex, caramel-like undertones and depth.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds umami and balances the sweetness in the glaze.
• Pineapple Juice & Lemon Juice: Just a bit of tang for the sauce to really pop.
• Vinegar: Brings a subtle acidity that rounds out the honey pepper sauce.
• Black Pepper & Cayenne Pepper: This combo brings warmth and gentle heat, making the flavor unforgettable.
• Butter (1 stick): The backbone of your velvety cheese sauce.
• Heavy Cream (2 cups): For that ultra-creamy, dreamy texture.
• Shredded Parmesan, Mozzarella & Colby Jack Cheese: Layered for the perfect blend of melt, stretch, and bold, cheesy taste.
• Minced Garlic (2-3 cloves): For a hint of aromatic depth woven right into the cheese sauce.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is just how customizable it is. Don’t be afraid to riff on the basics—this recipe is a blank canvas for your flavor and dietary creativity!

• Swap the Cheese: Try smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, or even pepper jack for a different twist on the sauce.
• Go Spicy or Mild: Adjust the amount of cayenne or add some red pepper flakes to the honey pepper sauce for extra heat—or leave it out for a milder version.
• Chicken, Your Way: Use grilled chicken, rotisserie, or even crispy tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Pasta Play: Penne, shells, or even whole grain pasta all work beautifully if you don’t have spirals on hand.

How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Bake or Fry the Chicken

Start by cooking your breaded chicken strips according to the package directions—either baked for a slightly lighter texture or deep-fried for maximum crunch. This gives you plenty of time to prep everything else, and piping hot chicken will better hold onto that sticky honey pepper glaze later!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Get a large pot of salted water boiling and add your spiral noodles, stirring occasionally. Cook just until al dente, then drain well—be careful not to overcook, since the pasta will soak up the rich cheese sauce and continue to soften.

Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

While the pasta boils, combine the honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. The sauce should thicken and develop a gorgeous glossy sheen—set it aside to cool slightly and get even stickier!

Step 4: Create the Dreamiest Cheese Sauce

Melt the butter with the heavy cream in a large pan over medium heat. Once silky, add in the cheeses—parmesan, mozzarella, then colby jack—one at a time, stirring constantly to encourage melting. Stir in the minced garlic, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be lusciously smooth and ready to hug every noodle.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the drained pasta right into your cheese sauce, making sure every curl is coated and creamy. Add in your crumbled bacon and give it a good toss so you get a bit in each bite. Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed—it’s pretty much irresistible already!

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

Now, dip each cooked chicken strip into your luscious honey pepper sauce, completely coating them. Set aside on a plate—the sauce will start to thicken and cling beautifully. This is where Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese gets its star power!

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Ladle big scoops of cheesy bacon mac onto plates or into bowls. Top with sticky glazed chicken, a sprinkle of chopped basil, and—if you never think there’s such a thing as too much bacon—another handful of crumbles. Dive in while it’s hot and melty for the full experience!

How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil is pure magic on Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. If you like extra color and crunch, a flourish of additional bacon or even a shower of green onions will make each serving pop. For a bit of heat, a pinch of extra cracked black pepper is lovely, too.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and hearty, so a crisp green salad or a tangle of garlicky sautéed green beans makes a perfect partner. Some warm, crusty bread is always welcome for swiping up every last drop of cheese sauce. If you’re serving a crowd, a bright slaw or roasted veggies round out the table effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

Take Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese over the top by serving it in individual mini-cast iron skillets or ramekins for a dinner party. For a fun family-style feast, pile it high on a big platter and let everyone dig in. Or, turn leftovers into a cheesy mac-and-cheese grilled cheese sandwich (trust me, it’s life-changing!) for lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store cooled Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it perfect for lunches or fast dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—assemble the mac and cheese but leave off the glazed chicken and garnishes until you’re ready to reheat and serve. Cool completely, spoon into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat servings in the microwave or a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or milk and stir gently if the cheese sauce needs reviving. Warm the glazed chicken separately and place on top just before serving to keep the texture crispy and saucy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I just know you’re going to fall in love with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese from the very first bite. It’s a joyful, over-the-top comfort food that brings everyone to the table—and makes them smile. Give it a try and let it become your new weeknight (or any-night) favorite. Enjoy every creamy, sticky, cheesy mouthful!

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