The Ultimate Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Hey there, lovely home cooks! I’m Emily, and I’m absolutely thrilled you’ve stopped by Delish Map today. I have a feeling you’re going to love what I’m sharing with you. I’m talking about one of those incredibly satisfying, intensely flavorful dishes that just makes your heart sing: my homemade Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.

It’s truly a game-changer, combining creamy, dreamy mac and cheese with sweet and spicy chicken, and I know you can whip it up in around 45 minutes.

The Story Behind This Delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

You know that feeling when you taste something so good at a restaurant, you just have to figure out how to make it at home? That’s exactly how I felt about a certain popular restaurant’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s a dish that has captured so many hearts, and for good reason. The combination of rich, savory pasta and that irresistible sticky, peppery chicken is pure comfort food bliss.

While I adore the original, making this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese at home lets me control the quality of ingredients and truly perfect the flavors to my liking.

Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a beloved dish from my own kitchen, whether it’s this or a delicious maple-glazed chicken entrée.

Why You’ll Love Making This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

I can honestly say this homemade version is going to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:

• Unbeatable Flavor Fusion: I’m talking about the ultimate balance of sweet, spicy, creamy, and savory. It’s a delightful dance for your taste buds that truly hits all the right notes.
• Surprisingly Simple: Despite its gourmet taste, I promise this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is incredibly approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. I’ve broken down every step to make it easy.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s just something about a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese, especially when topped with crispy, flavorful chicken, that brings ultimate comfort. It’s food that feels like a hug, much like a hearty chicken-based comfort food dish.
• Better Than Takeout: I truly believe my homemade version surpasses the restaurant’s. You get fresher ingredients, customizable spice levels, and that unbeatable homemade touch.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Having the right tools always makes cooking a little easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few things I rely on for this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:

• Air Fryer or Deep Fryer: If you’re using breaded chicken strips, these are fantastic for achieving that perfect crispiness quickly. A baking sheet and oven work great too.
• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This is ideal for simmering the honey pepper sauce. Its even heat distribution helps prevent sticking and burning.
• Sturdy Whisk: Essential for making a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce. I use mine constantly when making creamy sauces.
• Large Pot: You’ll need a spacious pot for cooking your pasta properly, ensuring they have enough room to move.
• Cheese Grater: If you opt for blocks of cheese, freshly shredding your own makes a huge difference in the creaminess of your sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Ultimate Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

I always say that quality ingredients are the foundation of any great dish, and this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is no exception.

Using light brown sugar in the honey pepper sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor, complementing the honey beautifully. And when it comes to cheese, freshly shredded is always my top recommendation for the smoothest, creamiest sauce imaginable.

Here is exactly what you’ll need:

• 1 16 oz box pasta
• 1 25 oz. bag breaded chicken strips
• Salt and Pepper
• Basil
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 Tbs soy sauce, low sodium
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 Tbs vinegar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
• 3/4 cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded
• 2-3 cloves minced garlic
• Chopped fresh basil

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Let’s get cooking! I promise, following these steps will lead you to a truly magnificent Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.

1. Bake or deep fry chicken strips according to package directions (you can also make your own), set aside. I like to get these going first, so they’re perfectly crisp and ready when everything else comes together.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Make sure to salt your pasta water generously; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself!
3. Meanwhile mix all your Honey Pepper sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken. The sauce will coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.
4. To make your cheese sauce melt your butter and cream together in a large pan. I use a pan large enough to eventually hold all the pasta.
5. Once melted add in your cheese one at a time, stirring after each addition then and garlic and stir until incorporated and everything in melted. Adding the cheese gradually helps prevent clumping and ensures a super smooth sauce.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go!
7. Add pasta to pan with sauce and stir to combine, add in your smoked beef and stir until incorporated. Ensure your pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.
8. Dip each of your chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce until coated and set aside. I use tongs for this to get an even coating.
9. When ready to serve, dish up your pasta and top with chicken strips and sprinkle with basil and additional smoked beef if desired. A little fresh basil really brightens the dish!

Making Homemade Chicken Strips (An Optional Upgrade!)

If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious and want to make your own chicken strips from scratch, it’s a wonderful way to personalize this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese even further! I recommend cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips.

Then, set up a classic breading station: one shallow dish with seasoned flour (salt, pepper, a touch of paprika), another with whisked eggs, and a third with panko breadcrumbs.

Dip each chicken strip first in flour, shaking off excess, then in egg, and finally coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Bake or fry until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Every Time

I want you to have the absolute best experience with this recipe. Here are my favorite tips to ensure perfection every time.

Mastering Your Cheese Sauce

For a perfectly smooth, creamy, and dreamy cheese sauce, I have a few tricks. First, always shred your own cheese from the block; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. When adding the cheese, do it off the heat or over very low heat, adding a handful at a time and stirring until each addition is fully melted before adding more. This slow, gentle melting prevents the cheese from seizing up and keeps your sauce silky smooth.

Perfecting Your Honey Pepper Sauce

Achieving that ideal sweet, sticky, and slightly spicy honey pepper sauce is key. When simmering, watch for it to thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer; if it’s too thick, you can add a tiny splash of pineapple juice or water to loosen it up.

Taste as it simmers and adjust the cayenne pepper for your preferred level of heat and a pinch more honey or brown sugar if you like it sweeter.

Keeping Your Chicken Crispy

No one wants soggy chicken! To ensure your chicken strips stay crispy, I recommend coating them in the honey pepper sauce just before serving. If you’re preparing a larger batch, you can even warm the chicken slightly in the oven or air fryer after coating to re-crisp it just before plating.

A quick broil for a minute or two can also work wonders to bring back that delicious crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced cooks encounter a hiccup now and then. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you solve any issues that might arise with your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.

My Mac and Cheese is Dry/Greasy!

If your mac and cheese turns out dry, it usually means the sauce cooked down too much or there wasn’t enough liquid. Next time, I would try adding a splash more heavy cream or even a little reserved pasta water to the sauce if it seems too thick before adding the pasta.

If it’s greasy, it might be due to too much butter or cheese with a high oil content. Ensure you’re measuring your butter accurately and consider using a slightly lighter hand with the cheese next time if you found it too rich.

My Honey Pepper Sauce Isn’t Thickening!

Sometimes, the honey pepper sauce needs a little extra coaxing to thicken. If after 15 minutes of simmering it still seems too thin, don’t fret. Continue simmering it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it coats the back of a spoon.

Another tip is to let it cool slightly off the heat; sauces often thicken more as they cool. If you’re in a pinch, a very small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon cold water) stirred in while simmering can help, but I find patience is usually the best ingredient here!

Variations & Substitutions for Your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

I love how versatile this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe can be. Feel free to play around with it to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

Storing & Reheating Your Leftover Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese (it’s rare in my house!), I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating, my go-to method is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its luscious creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through and adding a little liquid if needed.

For the chicken, I prefer to reheat it in an air fryer or oven to help restore some of its crispiness.

How to Scale This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to scale up or down, depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding. For more servings, I simply double or even triple all the ingredients, ensuring my pot and pans are large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

When decreasing the recipe for fewer servings, I halve everything. Just remember to keep an eye on cooking times, especially for the chicken and sauce, as larger batches might take a little longer to heat through or simmer.

Enjoying Your Homemade Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Less!

One of the greatest joys of cooking at home is the incredible savings, and this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a prime example! When I think about what a similar dish costs at a restaurant like Applebee’s, making it myself is a huge win for my wallet.

I estimate I save at least 50-70% by preparing this comfort food masterpiece in my own kitchen, and I get to enjoy more generous portions with higher quality ingredients. It’s a delicious way to save money without sacrificing flavor.

What to Serve with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

While this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is certainly hearty enough to be a meal on its own, I often enjoy pairing it with a simple side to balance out its richness. A simple garlic bread side or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice, offering a refreshing contrast.

Roasted broccoli or asparagus, simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon, also makes a lovely complement. These sides provide a welcome freshness that cuts through the creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors.

FAQs about Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

I often get questions about recipes, so I’ve put together some answers for you here!

I truly hope you feel inspired to bring the magic of this homemade Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese into your kitchen. It’s a dish that truly combines so many of my favorite flavors and brings immense comfort to my table. I just know you’ll love making it, and even more, you’ll love savoring every single bite.

Please, tell me what you think! I love hearing from you, so leave a comment below with your thoughts, any questions you have, or how your family enjoyed this amazing Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Did you try a fun variation? Share your culinary adventures with me! Happy cooking!

Love sweet, spicy, and cheesy comfort food? Follow Delish Map on Pinterest for more irresistible homemade favorites!

Alexa

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This homemade Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those incredibly satisfying, intensely flavorful dishes that just makes your heart sing. It’s truly a game-changer, combining creamy, dreamy mac and cheese with sweet and spicy chicken, all ready in about 45 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 1037

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 16 oz box pasta
• 1 25 oz. bag breaded chicken strips
• Salt and Pepper
• Basil
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3 Tbs soy sauce low sodium
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 Tbs vinegar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 stick butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese freshly shredded
• 3/4 cup colby jack cheese freshly shredded
• 2-3 cloves minced garlic
• Chopped fresh basil

Equipment

• Air Fryer or Deep Fryer
• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
• Sturdy Whisk
• Large pot
• Cheese Grater

Method

 

1. Bake or deep fry chicken strips according to package directions (you can also make your own), set aside. I like to get these going first, so they’re perfectly crisp and ready when everything else comes together.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Make sure to salt your pasta water generously; it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself!
3. Meanwhile mix all your Honey Pepper sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken. The sauce will coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.
4. To make your cheese sauce melt your butter and cream together in a large pan. I use a pan large enough to eventually hold all the pasta.
5. Once melted add in your cheese one at a time, stirring after each addition then and garlic and stir until incorporated and everything in melted. Adding the cheese gradually helps prevent clumping and ensures a super smooth sauce.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go!
7. Add pasta to pan with sauce and stir to combine, stir until incorporated. Ensure your pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.
8. Dip each of your chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce until coated and set aside. I use tongs for this to get an even coating.
9. When ready to serve, dish up your pasta and top with chicken strips and sprinkle with basil if desired. A little fresh basil really brightens the dish!

Nutrition

Calories: 1037kcal

Notes

Homemade Chicken Strips: For an optional upgrade, cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Set up a breading station with seasoned flour, whisked eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Dip each strip in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Bake or fry until golden brown and cooked through.

Mastering Your Cheese Sauce: For a perfectly smooth sauce, always shred your own cheese from a block. Add the cheese off the heat or over very low heat, one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted before adding the next.

Keeping Your Chicken Crispy: To prevent soggy chicken, coat the strips in the honey pepper sauce just before serving. You can also re-crisp the coated chicken in an oven or air fryer for a minute or two before plating.

Storing & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creaminess. Reheat chicken in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.

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