Craving a dish that combines the sweetness of honey with a kick of spice? This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is just the ticket. Paired with creamy macaroni cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Picture this: tender chicken glazed in a wonderful blend of honey and spices, served alongside a comforting bowl of rich, creamy macaroni cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves them asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this combination, it might just become a staple in your kitchen.
A Delicious Duo of Flavors
The Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness and heat that tantalizes the palate. The creamy macaroni cheese is rich and indulgent, creating a satisfying contrast to the chicken’s bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest.
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder; stir until melted and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve: Plate the chicken alongside a generous helping of creamy macaroni cheese. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken for added flavor.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 65g