Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
creamy honey pepper chicken mac & cheese - featured image

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese

  • Author: Rachel Summers
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This creamy honey pepper chicken mac & cheese is a comforting classic that combines rich, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, a hint of sweetness from honey, and a gentle kick from pepper. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2% preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Once the sauce is thickened, reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir in the honey and black pepper. Mix until everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
  6. Spoon the creamy honey pepper chicken mac & cheese into bowls. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to swap in low-fat cheese or add some veggies like spinach or broccoli for a nutritional boost. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try substituting the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 800
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 15
  • Carbohydrates: 60
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 35

Keywords: mac and cheese, chicken, creamy, quick dinner, comfort food

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://theyumtaste.com/creamy-honey-pepper-chicken-mac-and-cheese-easy-dinner-recipe/