Name: Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup honey; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Salt to taste

Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

When it comes to weeknight dinners, you want something that’s not just easy, but also packed with flavor and family-friendly appeal. Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese checks all these boxes and more. Imagine the aroma of tender chicken thighs, marinated in a honey-pepper glaze, wafting through your kitchen while a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese bakes to perfection in the oven. The vibrant golden hue of the chicken paired with the rich, gooey cheese creates a feast for the eyes that’s hard to resist. This delightful dish is perfect for casual family dinners or even entertaining guests, adding a touch of excitement to your table. So, gather your loved ones around and prepare to dive into this delightful dish!

Understanding This Recipe

Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is a dish that brings together contrasting flavor profiles that work beautifully in harmony. It’s a modern twist on traditional comfort food, marrying the succulent taste of chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze that tantalizes the taste buds. This chicken, typically made using boneless thighs for extra juiciness, is not only easy to prepare but can also be made in a slow cooker or air fryer for added convenience. The creamy mac and cheese, a nostalgic staple loved by both young and old, rounds out the meal, providing a comforting and indulgent side.

Served on a bustling weeknight or during a cozy family gathering, Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is sure to impress. The vibrant flavors of the chicken contrast delightfully with the creamy pasta, making it a perfect harmony of textures. Not to mention, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd without a hitch! Fun fact: Honey has been used in cooking across cultures for centuries, often symbolizing prosperity. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with a spicy kick, perfect for those looking to spice up their dinner routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are some compelling reasons to whip up this dish tonight:

Ease of Preparation: With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, this meal is perfect for beginner cooks. The honey-pepper marinade can be made in just a few minutes!
Flavor Complexity: The well-balanced sweetness of honey, spiciness of black pepper, and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese create a layered flavor profile that your taste buds will love.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting combination, making it a recipe that suits all ages. Mac and cheese is a universal favorite!
Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t break the bank while delivering a crowd-pleasing meal. You can even adjust the recipe based on what’s in your fridge!

Your Guide to Making Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese at Home

To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need around 45 minutes from start to finish. This dish combines pan-searing and baking, bringing out the flavors of the chicken while ensuring your mac and cheese reaches peak creaminess. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be using:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (juicy and tender)
- 1/2 cup honey (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (for that spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for extra taste)
For the Creamy Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (classic shape for holding cheese sauce)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for rich flavor)
- 1 cup milk (adds creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter (for richness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Salt to taste (brings out the flavors)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The oven will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and your cheese is bubbly.
Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, black pepper, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Macaroni: While the chicken marinates, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, bringing to a simmer, and then gradually add cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Mix in the cooked macaroni and season with salt.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Bake: Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve: Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with any remaining honey glaze, alongside a generous scoop of creamy mac and cheese. Enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!

What to Serve With Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and Creamy Mac and Cheese

This dish is a meal all on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with the right sides. A fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese, offering a refreshing balance. Roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs add color and nutrition while enhancing the aromatic experience. If you’re feeling festive, consider some crusty garlic bread for a touch of cozy indulgence. Pair this meal with a light white wine or lemonade for an extra touch of refreshment!

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Techniques matter when it comes to flavor and texture. Here are a few tips to consider for maximizing this recipe:

Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute chicken breasts, though they may need shorter cooking time to avoid dryness.
Spice Adjustments: If you’re looking for a milder version, reduce the amount of black pepper or use less honey for sweetness.
Equipment Advice: If you own an air fryer, cooking the chicken there will deliver crispier results in less time!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid overcooking the chicken; using a meat thermometer ensures juicy, perfectly cooked meat.

Variations & Add-Ins

If you’d like to add a twist to this dish, consider these variations:

Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add some chopped fresh jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne to the marinade for a fiery kick!
Cheesy Broccoli Mac: Fold in steamed broccoli into the mac and cheese for added nutrition and flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Style: Swap the honey for hot sauce in the chicken glaze for a zesty buffalo variant.

Kid-Friendly Version

To make this dish even more appealing for kids, consider dialing back the heat. You can reduce the black pepper and add some extra honey to the marinade, balancing the flavors to suit younger palettes. Consider serving the chicken cut into smaller pieces or even as chicken tenders for easier handling. Pairing it with fun shapes of mac and cheese can also make the dish visually appealing and more enticing for your little ones!

Storing and Reheating Tips

For any leftovers from your delicious Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and Creamy Mac and Cheese, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring optimal freshness. To maintain the flavors, it’s best if you keep the chicken and mac and cheese in separate containers.

When it’s time to reheat, you can use an oven, microwave, or air fryer. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered loosely with foil for about 20 minutes, until warmed through. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals to retain moisture. The air fryer is perfect for reheating chicken, giving it a crispy texture again! You can also freeze the dish; just make sure to use it within three months for the best quality.

FAQs

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken the night before or in the morning before you plan to cook, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

What kind of cheese can I use for mac and cheese?
While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or a blend for a unique twist!

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe; just cook according to the package directions.

How long does it take to cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is not only a culinary delight but also a comfort food classic that brings joy to the dinner table. With its wonderfully balanced flavors, ease of preparation, and family-approved appeal, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish provides satisfaction in every bite. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!

Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Print Recipe

A flavorful weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken thighs in a sweet and spicy honey-pepper glaze, served alongside creamy mac and cheese.

Author: amanda-lewis
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
1/2 cup honey
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, black pepper, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until simmering, then gradually add cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Mix in the cooked macaroni and season with salt.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add marinated chicken thighs and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve hot with any remaining honey glaze drizzled over the chicken, alongside creamy mac and cheese.