Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac & Cheese 🧀 – The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo!

Welcome to the Ultimate Comfort Food Combo!

Are you searching for a recipe that harmoniously blends sweet, spicy, and creamy into one unforgettable dish? The Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is designed to be your culinary hero, offering a symphony of textures and flavors that are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. On average, comfort food recipes can sometimes lean too much in one direction – either overwhelmingly sweet or excessively spicy. However, this meal strikes a perfect chord, delivering the comforting warmth of gooey mac and cheese alongside the zesty, bold kick of honey-pepper chicken. Get ready to transform your dinner table into a haven of deliciousness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to unlocking a world of flavor. Precision in measurements ensures the perfect balance, but feel free to adjust seasonings to your personal preference.

For the Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Chicken thighs are naturally more forgiving and stay moist, while breasts offer a leaner profile.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Or any neutral cooking oil for searing.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Kosher salt or sea salt offers the best flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a superior aroma.
• 1/4 cup honey: For that essential sticky sweetness. Raw or local honey adds a nuanced flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Low-sodium is a good choice to control saltiness. Provides that savory umami depth.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce: This is where the spicy kick comes from! Adjust to your heat tolerance – a little goes a long way.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is key for its pungent aroma and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a warm, zesty fragrance that cuts through richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra layer of heat that lingers.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: To thicken the sauce and give it that glossy finish.
• Toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish): Adds crunch, freshness, and visual appeal.

For the Creamy Mac & Cheese

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni: Or your favorite pasta shape like shells or rotini.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of our rich sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: To create a roux with the butter.
• 2.5 cups milk: Whole milk provides the creamiest texture, but 2% works too.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: For a hint of color and subtle warmth. (Smoked paprika is a delicious alternative!)
• 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp cheddar offers great flavor.
• 4 ounces shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese: Adds complexity and extra meltiness.

Timing is Everything

Compared to the average comfort food meal that can take over an hour, this Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac & Cheese is a weeknight-friendly champion, delivering incredible flavor in under an hour.

Step-by-Step Deliciousness

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Begin by ensuring your chicken pieces are uniformly cut. This guarantees even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels – a crucial step for achieving a good sear. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Macaroni & Cheese Sauce

While the chicken rests, let’s get the mac and cheese going. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a light roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère (or Monterey Jack) cheeses until completely melted and the sauce is lusciously smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which steams instead of sears). Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, combine the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until combined. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the skillet and stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sticky, spicy glaze. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more water or soy sauce. If it’s too thin, simmer for another minute.

Nutritional Spotlight

While this is a comfort food indulgence, here’s a general estimate of what you’re getting:

• Calories: Approximately 600-800 per serving (depending on portion size and specific ingredients used).
• Protein: High, from the chicken.
• Carbohydrates: Moderate to high, primarily from the pasta and honey.
• Fat: Moderate to high, from the cheese, butter, and chicken (especially thighs).

(Please note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary greatly based on exact ingredients and portion control.)

Healthier Swaps for Lighter Indulgence

Looking for a lighter take on this classic? Try these simple substitutions:

• Chicken: Opt for chicken breast and ensure you don’t overcook it to keep it moist.
• Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or opt for legume-based pastas for extra protein. Portion control is key here.
• Cheese: Use a reduced-fat cheddar and a smaller quantity of cheese overall. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the fat.
• Sauce: Reduce the amount of honey slightly and increase the sriracha for more heat with less sugar.
• Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli florets or peas into the mac and cheese to add nutrients and bulk.

Serving Your Masterpiece

This dish is a complete meal on its own! However, for an even more vibrant and balanced plate, consider serving it with:

• A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Steamed green beans or asparagus for a fresh, contrasting texture and flavor.
• A sprinkle of extra green onions and sesame seeds over both the chicken and mac and cheese.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

• Overcrowding the Pan: This is the enemy of a good sear on your chicken, leading to a steamed rather than browned exterior. Cook in batches!
• Not Patting Chicken Dry: Moisture is the enemy of searing. Always pat your chicken pieces dry before seasoning and cooking.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Undercooked pasta will become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Aim for al dente.
• Lumpy Cheese Sauce: Whisking constantly and adding milk gradually helps create a smooth sauce. If it gets lumpy, a quick blend with an immersion blender can often save it.
• Incorrect Cornstarch Slurry: Make sure to cook the cornstarch mixture for at least a minute to cook out the starchy taste and allow it to thicken properly.

Storing Leftovers Like a Pro

Leftovers can be stored 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 water to loosen the mac and cheese sauce, and in a separate pan or microwave for the chicken. The sauce for the chicken might thicken further upon chilling; a little warm water will help reconstitute it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Macaroni Cheese

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

Welcome to this deliciously bold and comforting recipe! TheSweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chickenpaired withCreamy Macaroni Cheesebrings together rich textures and flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. This meal combines the perfect balance of sweet honey, spicy pepper chicken, and creamy, gooey macaroni, making it the ultimate comfort food for any night.

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Ingredients

• Optional substitutions:

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken breastswith salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat theolive oilin a skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chickenfor about 6-7 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown. Once cooked, set the chicken aside.
4. In the same skillet,add the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
5. Let the saucesimmer for 2-3 minutesuntil it thickens slightly.
6. Slice the chickeninto strips and return it to the skillet, ensuring the pieces are well-coated with the sauce.
7. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil andcook the macaroniuntil al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
8. In a pot, melt thebutterover medium heat and stir in theflourto create a roux.
9. Slowlywhisk in the milkuntil the mixture is smooth and thickened.
10. Remove from heat andadd the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
11. Season the sauce withsalt and pepperto taste.
12. Mix the cooked macaroniwith the cheese sauce until fully coated.
13. Plate the creamy macaroni cheese, top it with the honey pepper chicken slices, and garnish withchopped parsley.

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