If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, this Honey Pepper Chicken is the answer! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are coated in a sticky honey-pepper glaze that has just the right amount of heat. Paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni, it’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is bold in flavor.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive in and bring some sweet heat to your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Sweet and Spicy Balance: The honey pepper glaze is perfectly balanced with sweet honey and bold black pepper.
• Comfort Food Classic: Paired with creamy macaroni and cheese, it’s indulgent yet satisfying.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward but delivers restaurant-quality results.
• Customizable: You can tweak the spice level and the cheese in the mac for a personalized touch.

What Does Honey Pepper Chicken Taste Like?

This chicken is coated in a glossy, sticky glaze that’s sweet, slightly tangy from the apple cider vinegar, and has a gentle heat from the black pepper. The tender, seared chicken soaks up all those bold flavors. Pair it with rich, creamy macaroni and cheese, and you have a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory on your plate.

Ingredients

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

• Chicken breasts (2 boneless, skinless)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• Honey (½ cup)

• Soy sauce (¼ cup)
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon)
• Ground black pepper (1 teaspoon, adjust for spice preference)

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

• Elbow macaroni (2 cups)
• Butter (3 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons)
• Whole milk (2 cups, warm)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, or your favorite cheese blend)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: Paprika (¼ teaspoon, for a touch of smoky flavor)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet (for cooking the chicken and sauce).
• Medium saucepan (for the macaroni and cheese).
• Mixing spoon (for stirring the sauce).
• Tongs (for flipping the chicken).
• Whisk (for the cheese sauce).

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ground black pepper.
2. Stir to combine and let the glaze simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through, then remove from the heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, if desired.
5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the creamy macaroni and cheese on one side of the plate.
2. Place the honey pepper chicken next to it, spooning extra glaze over the chicken for maximum flavor.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch (optional).

Tips for Perfect Honey Pepper Chicken

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
• Don’t Overcook the Glaze: Keep an eye on the glaze to prevent it from burning or becoming overly thick.
• Adjust the Heat: For more spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the honey glaze.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the creamiest macaroni and cheese, grate your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken and macaroni cheese in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the glaze. Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave, stirring in a little milk to restore creaminess.
• Freeze: The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. The macaroni and cheese is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and are often juicier. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or sriracha to the honey glaze for an extra kick.

What cheese works best for macaroni cheese?

Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even smoked gouda for added flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The chicken and macaroni can be made ahead and reheated. Store the honey glaze separately and reheat it in the skillet before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese, a meal that’s equal parts comfort and bold flavor. The sticky, sweet, and peppery chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy macaroni for a dish that’s sure to impress.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments or post your photos on Pinterest. And if you’re looking for more sweet-and-savory recipes, check out my honey garlic shrimp or spicy honey-glazed salmon—you won’t be disappointed!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 550
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Enjoy every bite of this sweet and spicy delight—it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds! 😊🍯🌶️