Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
This Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and packed with a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect comfort food for any weeknight or cozy feast!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole milk recommended
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons hot honey
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until light golden, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Slowly pour in 2 cups milk while whisking continuously. Cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni and chicken back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Drizzle 4 tablespoons hot honey over the mac and cheese and chicken mixture. Stir lightly to distribute the sweet heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot honey to control the spice level for your family.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, richer sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.