Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
It isn’t exactly healthy, but it is the epitome of comfort food!
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warm, creamy embrace of mac and cheese. It's a classic, beloved by many, and perfect in its simplicity. But what happens when you take this humble dish and elevate it to a gourmet experience? Enter Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese—a delightful fusion that transforms the traditional into something extraordinary.
The beauty of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of honey mingles effortlessly with the spicy kick of pepper, creating a balanced and tantalizing taste sensation. The addition of tender, juicy chicken adds a satisfying protein element that makes this dish not just a side, but a hearty main course.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory
The beauty of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of honey mingles effortlessly with the spicy kick of pepper, creating a balanced and tantalizing taste sensation. The addition of tender, juicy chicken adds a satisfying protein element that makes this dish not just a side, but a hearty main course.
Ingredients
1 16 ounces box spiral noodles
1 25 ounces bag breaded chicken strips
5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
Salt and Pepper to tasteBasil 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
1/2 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
2-3 cloves minced garlicChopped fresh basil
Directions
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!
