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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese


  • Author: Christine

Description

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delectable fusion of crispy breaded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a spicy-sweet honey pepper glaze. This comforting dish combines the best of both worlds, offering a satisfying crunch and rich, velvety texture in each bite. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit various dietary preferences.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 16 ounces box spiral noodles
  • 1 25 ounces bag breaded chicken strips
  • 5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Basil for garnish

Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • 3/4 c honey
  • 1/4 c light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoon soy sauce low sodium
  • 1/4 c pineapple juice
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 stick butter
  • 2 c heavy cream
  • 1/2 c shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 c mozzarella cheese freshly shredded
  • 3/4 c colby jack cheese freshly shredded
  • 23 cloves minced garlic
  • Chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  • Prepare the chicken by following the instructions, on the package. You have the option to either bake or fry the chicken strips. Once cooked set them aside.
  • Next, cook the noodles by boiling them according to the instructions on the package until they’re al dente. Then drain them.
  • To make the honey pepper sauce combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper and cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Allow it to cool down a bit after simmering.
  • In a pan melt butter. Add heavy cream to create a cheese sauce. Gradually stir in parmesan, mozzarella and colby jack cheese after each addition. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
  • Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix everything well together. Don’t forget to stir in some bacon for added flavor.
  • Take your chicken strips. Dip them into the honey pepper sauce so that they are thoroughly coated.
  • Now you can serve your dish! Plate up some of that pasta mixture. Top it off with those flavorful honey pepper chicken strips. Finally garnish, with some basil leaves if desired or even add bacon if you’re feeling indulgent.
  • Enjoy your mouthwatering Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or extra veggies. For a lighter option, use grilled chicken and low-fat dairy products. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and cheeses to make this dish uniquely yours.