Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac

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This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac has quickly become one of those meals I crave weekly. The sticky-sweet glaze on the chicken, with just enough heat to make your taste buds dance, pairs so beautifully with the rich, velvety cheese sauce clinging to every bite of tender macaroni. I made it one evening on a whim, wanting something comforting yet exciting, and wow—it absolutely delivered.

What surprised me most was how easy it was to pull together, even though it tastes like something you’d order at a trendy diner or BBQ joint. The golden-brown chicken bites soak up every drop of that honey pepper glaze, while the macaroni hugs its cheesy goodness like it was made to be your favorite side dish. I served it for a casual dinner party, and not one spoonful was left in the pot.

This is the kind of dish that brings people together. Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet weeknight or hosting friends for a movie night, this combo of bold and creamy is impossible to resist. If you enjoy flavor-packed comfort meals like my Marry Me Chicken Pasta or Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, you’re in for a treat with this one.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac

From the first bite, you get the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. The honey and crushed red pepper glaze gives the chicken that craveable sticky texture, while the creamy mac makes the whole experience cozy and satisfying. It’s family-friendly, indulgent without being fussy, and a surefire way to impress even the pickiest eater. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for juicy bites that absorb the honey pepper glaze well.

Honey: This is the heart of the glaze. It adds sweetness that balances the spice.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Brings the heat. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These bring savory depth and make the chicken irresistibly flavorful.

Soy Sauce: A splash adds umami and richness to the glaze.

Cornstarch and Water Slurry: This thickens the glaze until it clings to the chicken beautifully.

Macaroni Pasta: Classic elbow macaroni holds cheese sauce in every curve.

Butter: Used in the cheese sauce for rich flavor and smooth texture.

Flour: Helps create the roux for the cheese sauce base.

Milk and Heavy Cream: The combo creates a luscious, creamy base.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds bold flavor to the mac and cheese.

Mozzarella Cheese: For gooey, melty goodness in every forkful.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors throughout.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season bite-sized pieces of chicken breast with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Mix a slurry of cornstarch and water, stir it in, and cook until the glaze thickens. Return the chicken to the pan and toss until well coated.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook until it thickens slightly, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth and melty. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Spoon the glazed chicken on top or mix it in. Serve warm with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if you like a little more kick.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to fit your taste or dietary needs. Instead of chicken breast, try boneless chicken thighs for an extra juicy bite. If you’re leaning vegetarian, swap the chicken for crispy tofu or cauliflower florets — they soak up the honey glaze beautifully. For a smokier twist, add a touch of chipotle powder or smoked paprika to the glaze. In the mac, feel free to experiment with cheeses: Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack can offer a fun variation. Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish stands out as a hearty main course, so pair it with something light to balance it. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette works beautifully. Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans are also great companions. If you’re serving it at a gathering, offer some garlic bread or a basket of soft dinner rolls to soak up that extra cheese sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of lemonade or a fruity iced tea complements the sweet-spicy combo perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to restore its creaminess. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop. The chicken can also be reheated separately in a skillet over medium heat to retain its caramelized glaze.

FAQs

How spicy is the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac?

The heat level is moderate with the crushed red pepper flakes, but it can easily be adjusted up or down depending on your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if you’re not sure.

Can I make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the mac and cheese separately, then combine and reheat before serving. It makes a great make-ahead meal for busy nights or gatherings.

What cheese works best for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are my go-to combo for flavor and melt. However, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack if you’d like a twist.

Is Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac freezer-friendly?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the mac and cheese portion for up to 2 months. The chicken may lose a bit of its glaze texture after freezing, but it still tastes delicious. Reheat both in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving this combo of bold flavors and cheesy comfort, don’t miss my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or the irresistible Candied Jalapeños, which bring their own sweet-heat flair to the table. For another twist on cheesy classics, try the Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach — it’s a decadent seafood spin you’ll want to make again and again.

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Loved this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Cheesy Mac? Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. If you tried and enjoyed it, share the love! Post a picture on Instagram, send the link to a friend, or drop it in your favorite foodie group. Sharing helps more people discover and fall in love with these kinds of flavorful homemade meals.

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