If you’re looking to impress your dinner table with something both comforting and irresistibly flavorful, er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is about to become your new obsession. Succulent chicken glazed in a sticky-sweet honey pepper sauce takes center stage alongside a lusciously creamy cheddar macaroni that everyone will be reaching for seconds of. This dish layers comfort with just enough tang and spice to wake up your tastebuds—perfect for a cozy weekend or showing off at your next family gathering. Trust me, once you serve er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese, the only thing left will be requests for your recipe.

er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese such a crowd-pleaser comes down to a handful of kitchen staples, each playing their own crucial role in building flavor and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s what you’ll need for the most unforgettable meal.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are quick to cook and ensure juicy, tender bites every time.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors in both the chicken and cheese sauce.
Olive Oil: Helps achieve that gorgeous golden sear on the chicken, adding richness.
Honey: Gives the glaze its sweet stickiness and beautiful sheen.
Soy Sauce: Lends a savory depth and a bit of umami balance to the sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of tang to brighten and cut through the richness.
Ground Black Pepper: The “pepper” in honey pepper, adding warmth and a subtle kick.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the sauce with mellow, savory notes without overpowering.
Onion Powder: Adds sweet, aromatic complexity to both chicken and sauce.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic, chewy pasta that clings beautifully to the cheese sauce.
Butter: The base of your roux, bringing richness and silky texture to your mac and cheese.
All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce so it coats every noodle just right.
Milk: Creates the creamy body for a velvet-smooth macaroni.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the mac and cheese show—bold and melty!
Mustard Powder (optional): Brings a hint of complexity and sharpness if you like a classic kick.

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet—this is where you’ll get that gorgeous golden crust on the chicken. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and let it sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until both are beautifully browned and the outside is slightly crisp. Once seared, set the chicken aside while you prepare the flavor-packed sauce.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

Don’t wipe out the skillet—you want all that savory chicken flavor to meld with your sauce! Pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce start to bubble and thicken a bit, with a delicious sweet and spicy aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Glaze the Chicken

Return the browned chicken breasts to your skillet, nestling them right into that simmering sauce. Spoon the glaze over each piece so they’re generously coated. Turn the heat down to low, cover, and let it cook for 5 to 7 more minutes. This not only ensures the chicken is fully cooked but also allows it to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. When done, your chicken will be sticky, glazed, and packed with flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

While your chicken finishes, bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender, but with a bit of chew. Drain well and set aside, ready to soak up that creamy cheese sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a golden roux, which is the secret to a velvety cheese sauce. Gradually pour in your milk, whisking as you go, so you don’t get any lumps. Once the mixture thickens and bubbles, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and optional mustard powder. Let it melt into a smooth, dreamy sauce, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Fold the cooked macaroni into your cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is generously coated. Plate the creamy macaroni next to the glazed chicken breast, drizzling extra honey pepper sauce over the chicken for a final burst of sweet heat. Now you’re ready for the glorious first bite of er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese!

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Mac & Cheese

Garnishes

Breathe new life into your plate of er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese with just a few finishing touches! Sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for color and a fresh bite. A small dusting of extra black pepper makes the glaze pop, while a light sprinkle of paprika on the macaroni adds eye appeal and subtle warmth.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty yet pairs beautifully with lighter sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette or simply steamed green beans offer balance and freshness. For ultimate comfort, consider serving with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce from the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing twist, try assembling er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese in individual gratin dishes. Top the macaroni with extra cheese and broil for a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, cut the chicken into strips and fan them over a bed of creamy noodles for a bistro-style presentation that’s as inviting to the eyes as it is to the appetite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese is a guaranteed next-day treat. Store both the chicken and macaroni in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious and fresh for up to three days—just make sure to save any extra honey pepper sauce for drizzling!

Freezing

If you’d like to prep in advance, both components freeze quite well separately. Let the chicken cool before wrapping tightly and storing in a freezer-safe container. For the macaroni and cheese, portion it out and freeze in resealable bags or airtight dishes. Both will keep their flavor and texture for up to a month—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese back to its original glory, gently heat the chicken in a covered skillet with a splash of water or sauce. For the macaroni, reheat over low heat with a little extra milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving the chicken directly, as this can dry it out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are fantastic for this recipe—they’re very juicy and absorb the honey pepper glaze beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a couple extra minutes to fully cook through.

What type of cheese works best in the mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic for er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese, bringing bold flavor and smooth melt. You can experiment with blends like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for extra creaminess or a twist of flavor.

Is this recipe too spicy for kids?

This dish has a balanced sweet and spicy note that most kids enjoy. If you want it milder, just reduce the black pepper in the sauce and skip the optional mustard powder in the cheese sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for the macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Double-check your soy sauce and other ingredients for hidden gluten to make sure the dish is safe for everyone.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

A tablespoon of white wine vinegar or even fresh lemon juice will bring a similar tanginess to the honey pepper glaze. The goal is to balance out the sweetness with a subtle acidic kick!

Final Thoughts

It’s tough to beat a meal that brings together the sweet, spicy, ultra-juicy flavor of honey pepper chicken with the pure comfort of creamy cheddar macaroni. Give er Chicken with Creamy Macaroni & Cheese a spot on your weekly menu—your family and friends will thank you, and it just might become your most-requested dinner yet. I can’t wait for you to dig in and enjoy every bite!