📋 Ingredients
For the Pasta & Cheese Sauce:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
👩🍳 Construction (Step-by-Step Directions)
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in honey until bubbling.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan over low heat, pour in the heavy cream.
- Slowly whisk in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a serving dish and top with honey pepper chicken.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
🔄 Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for extra heat.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs on top for texture.
- Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for gouda, or use Monterey Jack for a creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms.
💡 Tips for the Best Mac & Cheese
✔ Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✔ Low Heat for Cheese Sauce – Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
✔ Balance the Sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly or add a dash of vinegar for contrast.
✔ Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth.
✔ Reheating Tip – Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
⏳ Time & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~710 kcal per serving
Enjoy your creamy, sweet, and peppery mac and cheese delight!