Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the macaroni is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni and cooked chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight!
Notes
For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
