Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s bound to become a family favorite. Combining crispy breaded chicken with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and the sweet-and-spicy kick of honey pepper sauce, this dish brings comfort food to a whole new level. When I made this for my family, it was an instant hit. The combination of savory and sweet with a touch of heat from the cayenne pepper gave the meal a unique twist that kept everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 1 (16 ounces) box spiral noodles
• 1 (25 ounces) bag breaded chicken strips (baked or fried)
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded)
• 3/4 cup Colby jack cheese (freshly shredded)
• 2-3 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Follow the package instructions to cook the breaded chicken strips. You can bake or fry them according to your preference. Once done, set them aside.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the spiral noodles in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and stir. Gradually add the parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby jack cheese, stirring well after each addition until the sauce is smooth. Stir in minced garlic, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing everything together until the noodles are fully coated. Stir in the crumbled bacon.
6. Coat the Chicken: Dip the cooked chicken strips in the honey pepper sauce until well-coated.
7. Serve: To serve, plate a generous portion of the mac and cheese, top with honey pepper chicken strips, and garnish with basil and extra bacon if desired.

Enjoy this delectable Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6-8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 780 calories

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Preparation Time

• Total Time: About 50 minutes
• Chicken and pasta: 20 minutes
• Honey pepper sauce: 15 minutes
• Cheese sauce and final assembly: 15 minutes

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How to Serve

• Serve warm as a comforting main dish.
• Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Add an extra sprinkle of bacon crumbles for added indulgence.

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Additional Tips

1. Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother cheese sauce without additives.
2. Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
3. Add a dash of garlic powder to the cheese sauce for a more garlicky flavor.
4. Reserve a bit of the honey pepper sauce to drizzle over the top before serving.
5. Bake the chicken strips for a healthier option or fry for extra crispiness.

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Recipe Variations

• Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese: Increase cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
• Veggie Addition: Add sautéed bell peppers or steamed broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute spiral noodles with a low-carb pasta alternative.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie count.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a handful of cheddar cheese for added flavor and creaminess.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.
• Pair with a crisp green side salad with vinaigrette.
• Enjoy with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea.
• Top with crushed red pepper for those who love extra heat.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to enhance flavor.

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Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Mac and cheese can be frozen without the chicken for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of pasta?
   Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or macaroni works well.
2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or a milk and butter mixture for a lighter option.
3. Can I make this dish spicier?
   Absolutely! Add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
4. Can I use grilled chicken instead of breaded chicken strips?
   Yes, grilled chicken adds a healthier twist to this recipe.
5. Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese sauce?
   Use dairy-free cream and vegan cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.
6. Can I make the honey pepper sauce in advance?
   Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
7. Can I use different cheeses in the cheese sauce?
   Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
8. Can I skip the bacon?
   Yes, bacon is optional but adds a savory depth to the dish.
9. How do I make it gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free chicken strips.
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to serve more people.

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Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a perfect dish for those craving comfort with a twist. The creamy, cheesy pasta mixed with sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken provides an exciting blend of flavors that appeals to everyone at the table. With its hearty ingredients and simple cooking steps, this recipe will be a hit for family dinners, special occasions, or just because you’re in the mood for something truly delicious. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the satisfying flavors in every bite!

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