A one-pan comfort meal packed with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a sweet-and-spicy twist—this dish reimagines classic mac and cheese into a hearty, flavor-loaded masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to something indulgent, this honey pepper chicken mac and cheese offers a balance of textures and bold, customizable flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Spicy Harmony
The bold combination of honey and cracked black pepper adds a rich layer of flavor. It’s both comforting and sophisticated, giving a gourmet edge to the classic cheesy pasta we all love.
Protein-Packed Comfort
Chunks of golden, sautéed chicken breast make this dish more than just a side—it’s a full meal. The protein makes it hearty, satisfying, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Creamy & Cheesy Goodness
The cheese sauce is luxuriously smooth, made with cheddar and Monterey Jack for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that clings to every piece of pasta.
Easily Customizable
Want it spicier? Add more pepper or crushed red flakes. Need it sweeter? Drizzle on a little extra honey. This recipe adapts easily to your preferences.
One-Pot Wonder
Using just one skillet, this dish saves time on prep and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves: 6–8
For the Honey Pepper Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cracked black pepper (or freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Mac and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra drizzle of honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken and stir until evenly coated.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Wipe the skillet clean if needed.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheeses a handful at a time.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Everything
- Add the cooked macaroni and the honey pepper chicken back into the skillet.
- Gently stir everything together until evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
Serve
- Dish out the mac and cheese while hot.
- Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, or an extra honey drizzle for added flair.
Why This Recipe Works
Honey-Glazed Chicken
The sweet glaze adds contrast to the savory cheese, offering a flavor-packed bite every time.
Roux-Based Cheese Sauce
A traditional flour-butter roux gives the sauce its smooth, clingy texture—perfect for coating pasta evenly.
Black Pepper Heat
Cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Variations to Try
Add Veggies
Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up
Mix in diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bolder kick.
Make It Gluten-Free
Substitute gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
Add Fresh Herbs
Fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary can elevate the dish with garden-fresh flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: It has more aroma and depth than pre-ground varieties.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Balance Sweetness and Spice: Taste the sauce before combining everything and adjust honey or pepper as needed.
- Reheat with Care: Add a splash of milk when reheating to bring the sauce back to life without drying it out.
Serving Suggestions
Romantic Dinner
Serve with a glass of white wine and garnish with edible flowers for a fancy twist.
Brunch Favorite
Pair with coffee or fresh fruit for a rich, satisfying midday meal.
Party Hit
Serve in small bowls or ramekins for a crowd, paired with sliders, dips, or veggie platters.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work great and stay juicy. Adjust cook time as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or chickpeas for a hearty meatless version.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Just reduce the black pepper or skip the red pepper flakes if your kids prefer mild flavors.
What’s the best cheese to substitute if I don’t have Monterey Jack?
Mozzarella or Colby Jack work well as replacements for a similar melt and mild taste.
Final Thoughts
Creamy, cheesy, with a punch of sweet and spicy chicken—this mac and cheese dish is everything comfort food should be. It’s filling, flexible, and irresistibly good. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, prepping it ahead for a potluck, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.