Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This indulgent Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines sweet and spicy glazed chicken with a rich, creamy pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. The combination of crispy chicken, smoky bacon, and three-cheese sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first created this recipe when my kids were craving both mac and cheese and chicken strips one night. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested for every birthday dinner and special occasion in our house.

Ingredients

• Spiral noodles: Provide the perfect texture to hold the cheese sauce
• Breaded chicken strips: Offer convenience; you can customize with homemade if preferred
• Bacon: Adds a smoky depth that elevates the entire dish
• Honey: Forms the sweet base of the glaze; using local honey enhances the flavor
• Brown sugar: Caramelizes beautifully in the sauce for depth
• Soy sauce: Low sodium variety prevents the dish from becoming too salty
• Pineapple juice: Provides natural sweetness and tenderness to the chicken
• Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness with bright acidity
• Three cheese blend: Parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack create the perfect cheese sauce texture
• Fresh garlic and basil: Add aromatic freshness that takes this dish to another level

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Cook your breaded chicken strips according to package directions until golden and crispy. You can use an air fryer for a healthier option or deep fry for maximum crispiness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Set aside while preparing the other components.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to soften slightly in the cheese sauce. Drain well but do not rinse to help the sauce adhere better.

Make the Honey Pepper Sauce:

Combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring frequently to prevent burning. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to concentrate. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, which will thicken it further.

Create the Cheese Sauce:

In a large deep pan, melt the butter and heavy cream together over medium heat. Once the mixture is hot and bubbly but not boiling, begin adding the cheeses one variety at a time. Start with parmesan, then add mozzarella, and finish with colby jack, ensuring each addition is fully melted before adding the next. Add the minced garlic and stir continuously until everything is incorporated into a smooth, velvety sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained pasta directly to the cheese sauce pan. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, ensuring every noodle is thoroughly coated. Add the crumbled bacon and stir until evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese. The heat should be low at this point to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Glaze the Chicken:

Dip each cooked chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce, taking care to coat all sides completely. Set the glazed strips on a plate or baking sheet. For extra flavor, you can double dip the chicken or brush additional sauce on just before serving.

Serve and Garnish:

Portion the cheesy pasta into bowls or plates. Arrange the glazed chicken strips on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil and additional bacon crumbles if desired. Serve immediately while everything is hot and the chicken is still crispy.

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The honey pepper sauce is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered this flavor combination at a local restaurant years ago and spent months perfecting my own version. My family now says mine is even better than the original which is the highest compliment a home cook can receive.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare both sauces up to 3 days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The honey pepper sauce may thicken when chilled; simply reheat gently while stirring until the desired consistency is reached. The cheese sauce will need to be thinned with a splash of cream when reheated.

Substitutions That Work

If you prefer a healthier option, use grilled chicken breast instead of breaded strips and whole wheat pasta instead of regular. For a spicier version, double the cayenne pepper in the honey sauce or add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. Dairy free alternatives can work too; substitute plant-based butter and cream alternatives, plus dairy free cheese, though the texture will differ slightly.

Serving Suggestions

This mac and cheese works beautifully alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For an elegant presentation, serve in individual gratin dishes with the glazed chicken arranged on top and briefly broiled for a golden finish. On busy weeknights, this is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.

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With this dish, you'll bring restaurant-quality comfort food home. Enjoy every indulgent bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use grilled chicken instead of breaded chicken?

Yes, grilled chicken works wonderfully. It offers a lighter alternative while still pairing perfectly with the cheese and honey pepper sauces.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spiral or fusilli pasta is ideal since its shape holds the creamy cheese sauce well, but you can also use penne or macaroni.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of the honey pepper sauce?

Absolutely. Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor, or add more for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare parts of the dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the honey pepper sauce and cook the chicken strips the day before. Reheat them before incorporating them into the dish.

→ What substitutes work for colby jack cheese?

Monterey Jack or a mix of cheddar with a milder cheese like gouda can serve as great substitutes for colby jack cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the macaroni and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.