If you’re looking for a dish that’s as warm and comforting as a big bear hug, this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is about to become your new favorite. Decadent, velvety cheese sauce wraps every tender noodle while crispy, honey-glazed chicken brings sweet, peppery sparks to each forkful. The magic happens when you mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, creating a blend so satisfying you’ll wonder why every pasta dish isn’t made this way. Whether you’re serving guests or simply treating yourself, this is one recipe that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how it transforms familiar pantry staples into a showstopping meal. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to play its part—from pasta and cheeses that create the ultimate creamy base, to the bold punch of spicy-sweet honey pepper chicken. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips for making every bite count.

Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, elbows hold onto sauce in all the right places for extra flavor with every bite.
Butter: Sets the stage for a smooth, rich roux that forms the foundation of your cheese sauce.
All-purpose flour: Whisked into the butter, flour helps thicken the sauce to luxurious levels of creaminess.
Whole milk: Adds body and flavor without being too heavy; don’t substitute with water or low-fat milk if you can help it.
Heavy cream: The secret to that ultra-creamy texture you crave in comfort food.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar if you want extra depth, but any melty cheddar is fantastic.
Mozzarella cheese: Gives the sauce melty, stretchy goodness—essential for those dreamy cheese pulls.
Garlic powder: Adds an aromatic lift without overpowering the cheese.
Onion powder: Deepens the flavor and complements the cheesy richness beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste just before serving for a perfectly seasoned dish.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cutting them into bite-sized pieces helps them cook quickly and soak up maximum flavor.
Buttermilk: Ensures tender, juicy chicken with a classic Southern touch.
All-purpose flour (for dredging): Coat the chicken thoroughly for the crispiest crust.
Paprika: Brings subtle warmth and color to the chicken’s crispy coating.
Salt and black pepper (for chicken): Don’t skimp here—a well-seasoned crust makes all the difference.
Vegetable oil: The ideal neutral oil for frying your chicken to golden perfection.
Honey: Sweetens the glaze and provides that signature sticky finish.
Soy sauce: Adds depth and a touch of umami to balance the sweetness.
Cracked black pepper: For seriously bold, peppery bite in the glaze—adjust to your spice tolerance!
Red pepper flakes (optional): Love a little extra heat? Add as much or as little as you like.

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Soak and Prep the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken pieces in a bowl with the buttermilk. Make sure every bit is coated, then put it aside for at least 20 minutes. This marinate does more than infuse flavor—it tenderizes the chicken, ensuring juicy morsels in every mouthful.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Meanwhile, mix your dredging flour with paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. One at a time, lift the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture until every piece is well coated. Shake off any extra flour—this is the trick to crispy, not clumpy, coating.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in your frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re crispy and golden. Don’t overcrowd the pan and adjust the timing for smaller or larger pieces. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to keep its crunch.

Step 4: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

For that irresistible sticky glaze, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes while stirring. Once it starts to bubble slightly, toss your hot, crispy chicken in the sticky goodness until every piece is shiny and well-coated.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. When done, drain and set aside. Don’t overcook—firm noodles are best for mixing with a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty but not browned. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Lower the heat, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and perfectly gooey. Finish by seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.

Step 7: Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce

This is where the magic happens: Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and watch every noodle soak up that velvety loveliness. Toss gently so nothing breaks apart, making sure each piece is coated evenly. This step brings the whole dish together—now you’ve got real mac and cheese bliss!

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Spoon generous portions of the creamy mac and cheese into serving bowls. Pile the honey pepper chicken pieces right on top so you get a bit of everything in every bite. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or an extra shower of black pepper to finish.

How to Serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or more cracked black pepper takes the look and flavor up a notch. For a little zing, try finely sliced green onions, or dust lightly with smoked paprika for smoky warmth. These pops of green or red add color and contrast to the cheesy, golden dish.

Side Dishes

Keep the meal balanced and colorful by pairing your mac and cheese with a crisp arugula salad, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli. The freshness of veggies perfectly offsets the rich pasta and makes every bite feel just right.

Creative Ways to Present

Swirl your Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce into mini cast iron skillets for individual servings, or layer it in a deep casserole and top with extra melted cheese under the broiler for a bubbly crust. For a party, spoon into small cups and top each with a bite of glazed chicken for an irresistible appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pile any leftover Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and glazed chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If storing together, keep a thin layer of wax paper between the chicken and pasta to help preserve the crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Place cooled Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce in a freezer-safe container, and freeze the honey pepper chicken in a zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the pasta in a saucepan with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture. For chicken, crisp up pieces in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes so they taste freshly fried. Put everything together just before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use different kinds of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classics, try mixing in Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a unique twist. Each type adds its own flavor and melting quality to the Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.

Is there a way to make this less spicy?

You’re in control! Omit the red pepper flakes and use less cracked black pepper in the glaze for a milder, kid-friendly version. There’s still plenty of flavor thanks to the honey and soy sauce combo.

Can I bake the mac and cheese instead of serving straight from the stove?

Definitely. After you mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden. Add the chicken after baking for the best texture.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free flour blend for both the cheese sauce roux and chicken dredge. Everything else in the recipe should work as written, so you won’t miss out on the comfort.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy?

If you want perfectly crunchy chicken, keep the glazed pieces on a wire rack after tossing in the honey pepper sauce, instead of adding them directly on top of the Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. This prevents steam from softening the crust before serving.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s your first time or the hundredth, you’ll find yourself craving another scoop of Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce with that irresistible honey pepper chicken on top. This dish is proof that comfort food can be both exciting and downright delicious. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve every creamy, crispy, perfectly peppery bite!

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a comforting yet flavorful dish with this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight. A combination of tender chicken in a sweet and peppery glaze served over creamy macaroni and cheese is sure to please your taste buds.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes.
In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Dredge chicken in the flour mixture and shake off excess.
Fry until golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes per side). Place on a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Honey Pepper Glaze: In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Toss crispy chicken in the glaze to coat evenly.
Cook the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Dish: Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls.
Top with honey pepper glazed chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra black pepper (optional).

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop, Frying
Cuisine: American