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–+ servings
Melany

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese – Comfort Food Perfection

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food indulgence! Tender spiral pasta coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, topped with crispy, saucy chicken strips and smoky bacon, this dish is a sweet, savory, and spicy masterpiece that will satisfy every craving.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Chicken:
  • 16 ounces spiral noodles 1 box
  • 25 ounces breaded chicken strips 1 bag
  • 5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
  • ¾ cup honey
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
  • ¼ cup pineapple juice
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Cheese Sauce:
  • ½ cup 1 stick butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • 2 –3 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken Strips
  2. Cook the breaded chicken strips according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.
  3. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Cook the Pasta
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  6. Add the spiral noodles and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
  7. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  8. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
  9. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  10. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  11. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  12. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
  13. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
  14. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  15. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  16. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  17. Slowly add Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  18. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  19. Assemble the Dish
  20. Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  21. Mix in crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired.
  22. Coat the Chicken
  23. Dip each cooked chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
  24. Serve and Garnish
  25. Plate a generous portion of mac and cheese.
  26. Top with honey pepper chicken strips.
  27. Garnish with fresh basil and additional bacon if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier sauce.
  • For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
  • This dish is best served fresh while the cheese sauce is at its creamiest.

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