If you’re craving a meal that perfectly balances heat, sweetness, and comfort, then the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, flavorful chicken coated in a lip-smacking honey and red pepper glaze alongside a luscious, cheesy macaroni bake. It’s the kind of recipe that’s both impressive enough to serve guests and cozy enough for a weeknight family dinner, delivering layers of deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this dish’s amazing flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken to the creamy cheese sauce that hugs every macaroni piece beautifully.
- 1 pound chicken breast: Choose fresh, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the spice and creates a glossy glaze.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides umami depth and savory richness to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings just the right kick to keep things exciting without overwhelming heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and vegetables to a perfect golden finish.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds crunch, color, and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Offers brightness and vibrant visual appeal alongside its mild flavor.
- 1 onion: Provides subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the peppers.
- 1 cup macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up creamy cheese sauce and mingle with chicken and peppers.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For a rich, melty, and sharp cheesy finish that makes the macaroni irresistible.
- 1 cup milk: Creates the smooth base for the creamy cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup butter: Essential for the roux that thickens the cheese sauce to silky perfection.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps build the creamy texture by thickening the milk in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the other flavors in the dish.
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and giving your baking dish a light grease. This step ensures your finished casserole bakes evenly and won’t stick, setting you up for success as you layer the ingredients later.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Marinade
Combine the honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This vibrant marinade is the heart of your chicken’s amazing flavor, blending sweet, spicy, and savory notes in one irresistible sauce.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Cut your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour in the honey mixture, seal it well, and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply, making every bite wonderfully tasty.
Step 4: Sauté the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This quick sear locks in the juiciness and caramelizes the marinade to perfection.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with chopped onions. Sauté these colorful veggies until tender, roughly 5 minutes, which boosts the dish’s freshness and adds a wonderful crunch in contrast to the creamy macaroni.
Step 6: Prepare the Macaroni
Meanwhile, cook your macaroni according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente so it holds its shape and texture when baked with the sauce.
Step 7: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to make a smooth roux. Cook this for 1-2 minutes before slowly whisking in milk, stirring until it thickens. Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until all the cheese melts into a luxuriously creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect balance.
Step 8: Combine and Bake
Mix the cooked macaroni into your cheese sauce evenly. Layer the browned chicken and sautéed vegetables into your prepared baking dish, then pour the cheesy macaroni over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown, creating a mouthwatering finish you’ll love.
How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes on top can also elevate the spice if you love a bit more heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad for crispness or steamed broccoli to keep things fresh and nutritious. Garlic bread is another wonderful choice for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the components separately in individual ramekins or bowls, allowing guests to build their own perfect bite. Or drizzle a bit of extra honey and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for an added layer of flavor and interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days while retaining its delicious flavors and textures.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain moisture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, to keep the chicken tender and the macaroni creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and richness, which pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy flavors in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly until they’re fully cooked.
Is there a way to make the dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the chicken for firm tofu or roasted vegetables like cauliflower and mushrooms. The honey pepper sauce and creamy macaroni cheese will still bring fantastic flavor.
Can I make the macaroni cheese gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce, and make sure to choose gluten-free macaroni for a safe and tasty meal.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe offers a balanced kick from the red pepper flakes that can be adjusted to taste. Reduce or omit the flakes if you prefer milder heat, or add more if you enjoy extra spice.
What type of cheese works best for the macaroni?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for creamy texture and bold flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for a creamier, slightly different twist. Just make sure to use good melting cheeses.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that hits all the right notes—satisfying, colorful, and bursting with layers of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, give this recipe a try. It promises to become a beloved staple that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a delightful one-dish meal combining tender, marinated chicken with vibrant bell peppers and onions, baked to perfection with a luscious, cheesy macaroni topping. The honey and red pepper flakes add a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, while the creamy cheddar macaroni provides a comforting contrast. Perfect for a flavorful family dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Creamy Macaroni Cheese
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a sweet and spicy marinade.
- Prep Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable plastic bag for marinating.
- Marinate Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces in the bag, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Set Chicken Aside: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the chopped onion. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes, absorbing the flavorful remnants from the chicken.
- Cook Macaroni: While vegetables cook, prepare macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Thicken Sauce: Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated with creamy cheese.
- Assemble Dish: Transfer the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Macaroni Cheese: Pour the creamy macaroni and cheese mixture over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly across the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the top turns golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot, enjoying the sweet and spicy chicken alongside the rich macaroni cheese.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for more robust flavor or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for creaminess and stretchiness.
- Make sure not to overcook the macaroni to keep it firm when baked.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
