Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac (Print Version)
Tender chicken pieces coated in honey and black pepper, folded into creamy mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
→ Chicken and Sauce
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
04 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 -
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
07 -
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 -
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 -
2 tablespoons honey
10 -
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder
12 -
½ teaspoon onion powder
13 -
½ teaspoon salt
→ Garnish
14 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, around 7–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set it aside; do not rinse.
02 -
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced cooked chicken breast, drizzle honey, and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper. Stir to coat evenly and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
04 -
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened and smooth.
05 -
Add softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and fully combined. Reduce heat to low.
06 -
Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Mix until melted and glossy. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Adjust seasonings as needed.
07 -
Return honey-pepper chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add cooked pasta and gently fold together until evenly coated.
08 -
Simmer the mixture on low heat for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
09 -
Transfer to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.