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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is one of those dinners that turns an ordinary weeknight into something extra special. Every bite brings creamy cheese, crispy chicken, and just a little sweet heat from a honey pepper sauce that really wakes things up. If you are craving comfort food with a twist or want to impress at the next family get-together, this recipe delivers all the creamy, crispy, and sticky-sweet magic you could ask for.
After trying this out for my husband’s birthday, it very quickly became a top-requested dish. The combination of smoky bacon and sticky honey pepper sauce makes everyone come back for seconds without fail.
Ingredients
- Spiral noodles: Give plenty of surface area for cheese sauce to cling to. Try to choose a sturdy shape that holds up well to stirring.
- Breaded chicken strips: Deliver crunch and protein in every forkful. Opt for a high-quality frozen version or homemade if you have a little extra time.
- Bacon: For deep smoky flavor. Thin-cut crisps up best for crumbling over the top.
- Honey: For real depth of sweetness. Choose a robust local honey for best results.
- Light brown sugar: Helps create the sticky glaze. Look for fine, fresh granules with a caramel aroma.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: In the honey pepper glaze brings savory balance. Go for naturally brewed for better taste.
- Pineapple and lemon juices: Brighten everything up. Use fresh, not bottled if you can.
- Colby Jack, Mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses: Combine to create a creamy sauce that stretches and melts beautifully. Use blocks you shred yourself for creamier results.
- Heavy cream with real butter: Ensures a silky, velvety base. Always pick heavy cream over milk for this sauce.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Gives a pop of color and freshness. Snip just before serving so it stays vibrant.
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Bake or fry your chicken strips according to the instructions on the package. If using frozen, make sure they are golden and crispy, then keep them warm on a tray.
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spiral noodles and cook until just al dente. Drain them thoroughly so the sauce will not be watery later.
- Simmer the Honey Pepper Sauce:
- Combine honey, light brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a small pan. Bring to a low boil, then drop the heat and let it bubble gently for around 15 minutes. Stir regularly until it has thickened to a syrupy consistency. Let cool for a few minutes.
- Stir Together the Cheese Sauce:
- In a wide skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and warm gently. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Colby Jack, whisking until fully melted and smooth. Stir in minced garlic. Add a dash of salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Noodles With Cheese Sauce and Bacon:
- Pour the drained noodles into your cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece. Stir in crumbled bacon for a smoky burst throughout.
- Coat Chicken With Honey Pepper Sauce:
- Dip each cooked chicken strip into the honey pepper sauce. Make sure every piece is fully glazed and sticky.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Heap a serving of cheesy noodles onto each plate. Top with the glazed chicken strips and scatter a little fresh basil and bacon over the top. Serve immediately while everything is hot and melty.
Colby Jack has always been my go-to cheese in this sauce because it melts easily and gives a mellow creamy finish. My kids love helping with the cheese grating and always sneak a bite or two before we start.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce actually develops more flavor overnight. Reheat on the stove gently with a splash of extra cream to keep it velvety smooth. Freeze single serving portions for quick lunches on busy days.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Choose different shapes of pasta like shells or elbows if spirals are not on hand. Make it with grilled or roasted chicken if you want to skip breaded strips. Vegetarian option by swapping chicken strips with crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower.
Perfect Ways to Serve This
Serve alongside a bright green salad to cut through the richness. Add a side of roasted broccoli or green beans for extra crunch. Top with a dash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
My best advice: Do a double batch if you have a crowd. Rarely do we have leftovers when this sweet spicy mac is on the menu.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I get the chicken extra crispy?
Bake or fry the breaded chicken strips until golden brown and crisp. For extra crunch, briefly broil after baking.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Any pasta with ridges or twists works well to hold the creamy cheese sauce, such as penne or fusilli.
- → What is the best way to thicken the cheese sauce?
Slowly add cheeses to the heated cream, stirring constantly for a smooth and thick texture. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.
- → Is the honey pepper sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild to moderate heat thanks to black and cayenne pepper, balanced by honey and pineapple juice. Adjust pepper as desired.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce's creaminess.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep sauces and bacon in advance. Combine all parts just before serving for the best texture.