Sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken with creamy macaroni and cheese recipe idea

 

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese 🍯❤️

Ingredients 📝

For the Chicken:

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1/2 cup honey

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce

- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Sriracha or any preferred brand)

- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

- 2 cups elbow macaroni

- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade for Chicken:

   In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside half of the sauce for later and use the other half to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the used marinade) and season both sides with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Pour the reserved half of the honey sauce over the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Macaroni:

   While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Add the Cheeses:

   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:

   Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure the pasta is fully coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Serve:

   Plate the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken alongside the creamy macaroni and cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this delicious combination!

The Secret of the Recipe 🤫

Baste the chicken with the honey-pepper sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra glaze that adds both flavor and shine! 🍯✨

Time & Serving Info ⏰

Prep Time: 20 minutes  

Cook Time: 30 minutes  

Total Time: 50 minutes  

Servings: 4  

Calories per Serving: 700 kcal

ENJOY 😍