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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.

Notes

  • 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.