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- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, then dip in the beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside to cool slightly, then slice into strips.
2. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over low heat, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Toss the sliced chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
3. Prepare the Mac and Cheese
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Plate the mac and cheese, and top with the honey pepper chicken strips.
Tips for Perfect Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs make the chicken extra crispy, adding great texture to the dish.
- Balance the Sweet and Heat: Adjust the black pepper and red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Blend Your Cheese: Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella adds creaminess and a mild flavor balance. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like gouda or Monterey Jack, for added richness.
A Comfort Food Experience Like No Other
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a decadent, flavorful twist on traditional mac and cheese, with crispy, honey-coated chicken that adds a sweet and spicy layer to each creamy bite. This dish is perfect for impressing family or friends or for treating yourself to something extra special. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the ultimate in comfort food bliss with this honey pepper sensation!