Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese
Indulge in the irresistible blend of sweet and spicy with this Honey Pepper Chicken. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a luscious honey-pepper sauce, perfectly balanced with soy sauce and a hint of cayenne. Served alongside creamy macaroni cheese , this dish combines the heat of black pepper and the richness of cheddar and mozzarella. Ideal for a comforting dinner, it’s garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please your taste buds and your family!
Ingredients:
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:
– 8 ounces macaroni pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Pepper Chicken:
– Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
– Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
– In the same skillet, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
– Slice the chicken into strips and return to the skillet, coating well with the honey pepper sauce. Keep warm while preparing the macaroni cheese.
2. Prepare the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:
– Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
– In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
– Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
– Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
– Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce until well coated.
3. Serve:
– Serve the creamy macaroni cheese topped with honey pepper chicken strips.
– Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness.
– Enjoy this delectable sweet and spicy dish with rich, creamy macaroni cheese!