Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese (Print-Friendly Version)
Tender spiced chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a hot honey finish combine for bold flavors in every bite.
# Ingredients List:
→ Mac and Cheese Base
01 -
225 g elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
02 -
2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 -
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
04 -
480 ml whole milk
05 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 -
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
09 -
Salt, to taste
10 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Spiced Chicken
11 -
2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
13 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 -
0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
15 -
0.5 teaspoon chili powder
16 -
Salt, to taste
17 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Hot Honey Drizzle & Garnish
18 -
3 tablespoons honey
19 -
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha or preferred choice)
20 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 -
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and cook, stirring frequently, for 1–2 minutes until a pale golden roux forms. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once the mixture thickens and bubbles, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and incorporate both cheeses gradually, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Add boiled pasta to the sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly. Keep warm on low heat.
03 -
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until thoroughly cooked through and well-charred on the exterior.
04 -
Gently warm the honey in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the hot sauce until fully blended to create a cohesive sweet and spicy drizzle.
05 -
Portion the mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top with the spiced chicken pieces. Drizzle the hot honey mixture generously over the chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Ensure chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve optimal browning and avoid excess moisture in the skillet.