Indulge in this ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist! Creamy, cheesy macaroni is paired with crispy honey-glazed pepper chicken, creating a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.
For the Mac and Cheese:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
1/3 cup honey
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp cracked black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes.
In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Fry 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Make the Honey Pepper Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Toss the fried chicken in the glaze to coat evenly.
3. Cook the Macaroni and Cheese:
Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
Reduce heat, stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls.
Top with honey pepper glazed chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra black pepper, if desired.
Crispier Chicken: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cheese Variations: Use a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for extra flavor.
Spice Adjustment: Add more red pepper flakes to the glaze for extra heat.