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–+ servings
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

Indulge in Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese—a savory and sweet dish perfect for cozy nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Use gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Chicken
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing
  • 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with turkey or firm tofu for vegetarian
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Honey For vegan option, use maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For richness
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Can use gluten-free flour
  • 2 cups Milk Substitute with nut milk for dairy-free
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with vegan cream for dairy-free
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Can use dairy-free cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
For the Finish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley For garnish

Equipment

  • Pot
  • skillet
  • saucepan
  • Colander
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden, then slice.
  3. Return chicken to skillet, add honey and crushed red pepper, stir to coat, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened.
  5. Sprinkle in mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Add garlic and onion powder.
  6. Mix in cooked macaroni and chicken until well coated.
  7. Transfer to a greased baking dish, optionally sprinkle extra cheese on top, broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.
  8. Garnish with parsley, serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

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