Go Back Email Link
Juicy honey pepper chicken sliced on top of creamy mac and cheese with melted cheese strands.

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight – Easy Comfort Food Recipe with Juicy Chicken, Sweet Heat, and Cheesy Pasta

Samantha
A comforting blend of juicy honey pepper chicken, tender pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate sweet and spicy comfort food dinner. Easy to prepare in under an hour, this high-protein pasta bake is perfect for family meals, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Packed with bold flavors, gooey cheddar, and a golden baked finish, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine American, Southern-Inspired
Servings 6 servings
Calories 560 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta: Boil until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Season chicken: Toss diced chicken with honey, black pepper, paprika, garlic, and onion powder.
  • Cook chicken: Sear in a skillet until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  • Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour, then add chicken broth and cream. Stir until smooth and thickened.
  • Add cheese: Mix in cheddar and mozzarella until creamy and melted.
  • Combine: Stir in pasta and chicken until coated.
  • Bake (optional): Transfer to casserole dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes for a golden top.
  • Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Secret Tips for the Best Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

1. Sear the chicken first: For juicy chicken with maximum flavor, sear the pieces until golden before adding them to the creamy mac and cheese. This locks in the juices and enhances the sweet heat from the honey pepper sauce.
2. Balance the sweet and spicy: Use a combination of honey and freshly cracked black pepper or chili flakes. Adjust the ratios so the honey adds a subtle sweetness while the pepper brings a bold kick without overpowering the cheesy pasta.
3. Choose the right cheese blend: A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully into a creamy sauce. Adding a little Parmesan can deepen the flavor of this comfort food recipe.
4. Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercook the pasta before combining with the sauce. This way, the mac and cheese stays firm and soaks up the creamy honey pepper sauce without getting mushy.
5. Garnish for the perfect finish: Top your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese with fresh parsley or green onions for color, and a light drizzle of honey for extra shine and flavor.
Keyword baked chicken mac and cheese with honey glaze, best cheese blend for honey pepper chicken mac, cheesy honey pepper chicken comfort food, creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese delight recipe, easy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese casserole, family friendly creamy chicken mac and cheese, high protein creamy chicken mac and cheese meal prep, homemade creamy chicken pasta bake, one pot honey chicken mac and cheese dinner, weeknight honey chicken pasta with cheese