Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. This dish features crispy, seasoned chicken bites glazed with a sticky honey pepper sauce, served over a rich and creamy mac and cheese base. The combination of the velvety cheese sauce and the slightly spicy honey glaze creates an irresistible taste that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal at home, a comforting dinner, or a special dish to impress your family and friends, this recipe delivers. It’s packed with bold flavors, crispy textures, and a smooth, cheesy finish that makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate traditional mac and cheese into a gourmet-level dish.

In this detailed guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know to create the best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. From selecting the right cheese to perfecting the crispy chicken and crafting the flavorful honey pepper glaze, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to indulge in a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Flavor Balance – The combination of sweet honey, spicy pepper, and creamy mac and cheese creates an incredible taste.
  • Crispy and Creamy Texture – The crunchy fried chicken paired with smooth, velvety cheese sauce makes every bite satisfying.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home – This dish tastes just like something from a gourmet restaurant, but you can make it easily in your own kitchen.
  • Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the honey pepper glaze to make it as mild or as spicy as you like.
  • Great for Special Occasions – Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want to impress guests.
  • Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness with crispy chicken bites!

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 720
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 egg
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons butter

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crispy Chicken

  1. In a bowl, add the chicken pieces and cover with buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for extra tenderness).
  2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat one egg.
  4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

2. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, black pepper, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and butter.
  2. Heat over medium, stirring until well combined. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.

3. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  2. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until melted and smooth.

5. Assemble the Dish

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  2. Spoon the mac and cheese into serving bowls.
  3. Top with honey pepper chicken.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately!

Ingredient Background

  • Cheddar Cheese – Provides a sharp, rich flavor and smooth texture to the sauce.
  • Honey – Balances the dish with natural sweetness.
  • Black Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the honey.
  • Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and enhances crispiness.

Technique Tips

  • Double-Coat the Chicken: For extra crispiness, coat the chicken twice before frying.
  • Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente for the best texture.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

  • Mac and Cheese Bites: Serve in small ramekins for party-friendly portions.
  • Loaded Mac and Cheese Bowl: Add crispy bacon and caramelized onions.
  • Baked Version: Place in a casserole dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake for a crispy top.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Keep the Chicken Crispy: Toss in the glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Control the Spice Level: Reduce red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.
  • Make It Even Cheesier: Add gouda or gruyere for extra depth.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Buffalo Version: Swap honey glaze for buffalo sauce.
  • BBQ Mac and Cheese: Use a smoky BBQ glaze instead of honey pepper sauce.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store mac and cheese separately from chicken for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with extra milk.

Healthier Twist Ideas

  • Use Baked Chicken: Bake chicken instead of frying to reduce fat.
  • Substitute Whole Wheat Pasta: Adds fiber for a healthier option.
  • Lighten the Cheese Sauce: Use reduced-fat cheese and milk.

Serving Suggestions for Events

  • Game Night: Serve in bowls with extra cheese and green onions.
  • Family Dinner: Pair with a fresh green salad.
  • Potluck Dish: Serve in a large casserole dish with a crispy topping.

Special Equipment

  • Deep Fryer or Skillet: For frying the chicken.
  • Saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.
  • Mixing Bowls: For preparing ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, but fresh fried chicken is best.
  2. What cheese melts the best? Sharp cheddar and mozzarella work well.
  3. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and flour substitutes.
  4. How do I store leftovers? Keep mac and cheese separate from chicken.
  5. What side dishes go well? A simple green salad or roasted veggies.
  6. Can I make this less spicy? Reduce red pepper flakes and black pepper.
  7. Can I air-fry the chicken? Yes! Air-fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.
  8. How do I prevent grainy cheese sauce? Use fresh cheese and low heat.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a bold, comforting dish that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and creaminess. The crispy, golden chicken coated in a rich honey pepper glaze pairs beautifully with the velvety mac and cheese, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion, a cozy family dinner, or just craving a restaurant-style meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. With its customizable spice level and various topping options, you can easily tailor it to your taste. Try this irresistible dish today and enjoy a flavor-packed comfort meal!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crispy Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 egg
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons butter

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crispy Chicken

  1. In a bowl, add the chicken pieces and cover with buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for extra tenderness).
  2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat one egg.
  4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

2. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, black pepper, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and butter.
  2. Heat over medium, stirring until well combined. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.

3. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  2. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until melted and smooth.

5. Assemble the Dish

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  2. Spoon the mac and cheese into serving bowls.
  3. Top with honey pepper chicken.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately!
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆