Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ tsp garlic powder
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
⅓ cup honey
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp water
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp cornstarch (optional)
For the Mac and Cheese:
8 oz elbow or cavatappi pasta
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
¼ cup breadcrumbs for topping
Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook chicken: Season and sear until golden and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
Make honey glaze: Combine honey, soy sauce, pepper, and simmer. Toss with cooked chicken.
Cook pasta: Boil until al dente, drain.
Make cheese sauce: In the same pot, whisk butter and flour, then add milk. Stir in cheeses until melted and creamy.
Combine: Mix pasta with cheese sauce. Top with glazed chicken.
Optional: Add breadcrumbs and broil until golden for a baked version.
Serve warm and garnish with parsley or extra pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop (optional oven broil finish)
- Cuisine: American / Fusion Comfort Food
Keywords: honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, sweet spicy mac and cheese, comfort food pasta, chicken mac and cheese, skillet mac, cheesy pasta bowl