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Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken served with creamy macaroni and cheese

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese

A delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, this dish combines succulent chicken in a honey pepper glaze with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it perfect for any meal occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Macaroni and Cheese

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes.

Cook the Macaroni

  • Boil a pot of salted water, add the elbow macaroni, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Bake the Chicken

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, drizzle the reserved marinade over it, and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
  • Slice the baked chicken and serve it over the macaroni and cheese. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Notes

This dish can accommodate various spice levels and cheese types. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated easily.
Keyword Comfort Food, Honey Pepper Chicken, Macaroni and Cheese, sweet and spicy, Weeknight Dinner