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–+ servings
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights In

Enjoy a delightful blend of sweet and spicy with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, perfect for cozy nights and satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni can substitute with penne or shells
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil for sautéing
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream base for cheese sauce
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese main cheese
  • ½ cup Mozzarella Cheese for gooey texture
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese adds nutty depth
For Flavoring
  • ¼ cup Honey harmonizes with pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper using freshly ground recommended
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • separate saucepan
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chicken pieces seasoned with salt and black pepper for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Melt butter in the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in honey and additional black pepper, simmer until syrupy and coat chicken in the glaze.
  5. In a separate saucepan, bring heavy cream to a simmer, whisk in cheeses until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine drained macaroni with cheese sauce, add reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. Gently fold in the honey pepper chicken into the macaroni and cheese mixture.
  8. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, cook pasta al dente and avoid overcooking garlic to prevent bitterness. Adjust honey and pepper to your taste.

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