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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

A comforting dish that combines creamy mac and cheese with honey-glazed chicken, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko Panko recommended for extra crunch.
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for roux)
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set up a breading station with three bowls for the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  2. Coat each piece of chicken in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally press it into the breadcrumbs.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
  2. Drain the chicken on paper towels.
  3. In a small saucepan, warm the honey and black pepper. Toss the fried chicken in this glaze and set aside.
Cooking the Mac and Cheese
  1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until slightly thickened.
  4. Add the cheeses to the roux and stir until smooth. Season with salt.
  5. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Serving
  1. Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls or a serving dish, then top with the honey pepper chicken. Serve warm.

Notes

For added nutrition, consider mixing in some veggies like spinach or broccoli. This dish can be served with fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added flavor.