Name: Honey Pepper Mac
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16 oz) box spiral noodles.; 1 (25 oz) bag breaded chicken strips.; 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled.; Salt and pepper to taste.; Fresh basil for garnish.; ¾ cup honey (for the sauce).; ¼ cup light brown sugar (for the sauce).; 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce (for the sauce).; ¼ cup pineapple juice (for the sauce).; Juice of 1 lemon (for the sauce).; 1 tbsp vinegar (for the sauce).; 1 tsp black pepper (for the sauce).; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for the sauce).; 1 stick butter (for the cheese sauce).; 2 cups heavy cream (for the cheese sauce).; ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for the cheese sauce).; 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (for the cheese sauce).; ¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese (for the cheese sauce).; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (for the cheese sauce).; Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional).

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. This rich and creamy mac and cheese is made with a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses, creating a smooth, indulgent sauce. It's then topped with crispy, honey pepper-coated chicken strips for a sweet and spicy kick. Crumbled bacon adds savory crunch, while fresh basil brings a touch of freshness to the dish. Perfect for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing comfort food option, this mac and cheese is sure to satisfy!

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese combines the richness of creamy mac and cheese with the bold, sweet, and spicy flavors of honey pepper chicken. This dish is a comforting, indulgent meal perfect for family dinners or any time you crave something extra special. The cheese sauce is made with a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses, creating a smooth and flavorful base that coats every bite of pasta. Topped with crispy chicken strips tossed in a honey pepper sauce and garnished with bacon and fresh basil, this mac and cheese takes comfort food to a whole new level.

INGREDIENTS

Spiral noodles: 1 (16 oz) box
Breaded chicken strips: 1 (25 oz) bag, cooked
Bacon: 5 slices, cooked and crumbled
Honey: 3/4 cup (for the sauce)
Light brown sugar: 1/4 cup (for the sauce)
Soy sauce (low sodium): 3 tbsp (for the sauce)
Pineapple juice: 1/4 cup (for the sauce)
Lemon juice: Juice of 1 lemon (for the sauce)
Vinegar: 1 tbsp (for the sauce)
Black pepper: 1 tsp (for the sauce)
Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp (for the sauce)
Butter: 1 stick (for the cheese sauce)
Heavy cream: 2 cups (for the cheese sauce)
Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded (for the cheese sauce)
Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded (for the cheese sauce)
Colby Jack cheese: 3/4 cup, shredded (for the cheese sauce)
Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced (for the cheese sauce)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Cook the breaded chicken strips according to package instructions. Once done, set them aside.
Step 2:: Cook the spiral noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: Make the honey pepper sauce by combining honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 4:: Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a pan. Add heavy cream and stir, then gradually add the cheeses. Stir until smooth. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5:: Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and stir in crumbled bacon. Dip the cooked chicken strips in the honey pepper sauce, ensuring they are fully coated.
Step 6:: Plate the mac and cheese, top with the honey pepper chicken strips, and garnish with fresh basil. Add more bacon for extra flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

This dish is best served fresh and hot, right after preparing.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

You can use grilled or homemade fried chicken strips for a different texture.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

For a richer flavor, add a touch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.

Why Sweet and Spicy Flavors Work So Well in This Dish

The combination of sweet honey, spicy cayenne, and savory chicken brings balance to this dish. The creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon create a perfect contrast, making it an irresistible comfort food option.

Occasions to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to serve a hearty, flavorful meal that will satisfy everyone.

FAQs

Can I make the honey pepper sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge until needed.

Can I substitute the chicken strips with grilled chicken?

Yes, grilled chicken works well if you prefer a lighter option.

Summary

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a rich, indulgent meal combining cheesy macaroni with crispy chicken strips coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce. The mac and cheese is made with a creamy blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses, creating a smooth, flavorful base. Topped with honey pepper chicken and crumbled bacon, this dish offers a delicious contrast of textures and flavors—sweet, savory, and just a little spicy. It's the ultimate comfort food for any occasion!