This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese brings together a mouthwatering combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, creating the perfect comfort food pairing. The tender, oven-baked chicken is coated in a flavorful honey pepper glaze, while the mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and cheesy—making this meal a hit with the whole family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the best of both worlds: the perfect balance of sweet and spicy chicken alongside a rich, creamy mac and cheese. The honey pepper glaze is the star of the chicken, giving it a sticky, delicious sweetness with a touch of heat. Paired with the creamy, cheesy mac and cheese, this meal is comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special treat for your loved ones.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup macaroni pasta
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper.
Coat the chicken breasts with the honey pepper sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
While the chicken is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Stir in the butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and creamy.
Serve the honey pepper chicken with a generous side of creamy mac and cheese.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy alternative: Increase the amount of hot sauce for an extra kick, or add some red pepper flakes to the honey sauce.
Cheese variation: Experiment with different cheeses for the mac and cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with grilled or sautéed tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
Add veggies: Add some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to the mac and cheese to boost the nutritional value.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and mac and cheese in the microwave or oven. In the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until warm. In the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe and will provide extra juiciness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. What if I don’t have hot sauce?

If you don’t have hot sauce, you can use sriracha, chili paste, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar spicy kick.

3. Can I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in a little extra milk to bring back its creaminess.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese for the mac and cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix it up! A blend of cheddar and Parmesan or a creamy blend of gouda and cheddar will work beautifully.

5. Can I add vegetables to the mac and cheese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or sautéed onions to the mac and cheese to make it more nutritious.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make it spicier, add more hot sauce to the chicken glaze or toss in some red pepper flakes for extra heat.

7. Can I cook the chicken on the stovetop instead of baking it?

Yes, you can cook the chicken breasts on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the macaroni pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free.

9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.

10. Can I use a different pasta for the mac and cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta, such as penne, shells, or rotini, if you prefer.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is a fun, flavorful meal that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements. The oven-baked chicken is tender and coated in a delicious glaze, while the mac and cheese provides the ultimate creamy comfort. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any night of the week and will surely become a favorite in your dinner rotation!

Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

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Print Recipe

Enjoy the ultimate comfort meal with Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese! This easy-to-make dish combines tender oven-baked chicken glazed with a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, paired with rich, creamy mac and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this flavorful combination is sure to become a family favorite!

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper.
Coat the chicken breasts with the honey pepper sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
While the chicken bakes, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Stir in the butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese into the cooked pasta until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Serve the honey pepper chicken with a generous side of creamy mac and cheese.

Notes

Spicy alternative: Add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes for an extra kick in the chicken glaze.
Cheese variation: Try using mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile in the mac and cheese.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
Add veggies: Boost the nutritional value of the mac and cheese by adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Oven-Baked, Stovetop
Cuisine: American