Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Name: Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/2 cup raw honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup milk; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp paprika

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

July 22, 2025

Updated:

July 22, 2025

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It’s a culinary adventure that will tickle your taste buds and warm your heart. Imagine juicy chicken that dances between sweet and spicy, enveloped in a glaze that makes you want to lick the plate clean. Pair this with creamy macaroni cheese, and you’ve got a dish that is not just a meal but an experience you’ll want to savor again and again.

As I prepared this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese, I was transported back to family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table. The aroma of sizzling chicken would mingle with the cheesy goodness from the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that made everyone feel right at home. This dish is perfect for those moments when you want to impress friends or simply indulge in comfort food on a quiet evening.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The flavor profile strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and heat, pleasing every palate
Visually stunning, it’s sure to be the star of any dinner table
Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations, it never disappoints

The other night, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this dish turned out; their compliments filled my heart with joy.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your guest count.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for the best flavor—no squishy ones allowed!
Honey: Opt for raw honey if possible; it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Fresh Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives a robust kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic; feel free to experiment with shapes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar Cheese: A mix of sharp and mild cheddar creates layers of cheesy goodness.
Milk and Butter: Essential for that creamy macaroni cheese texture—don’t skimp here!
Paprika: A sprinkle brings warmth and color; smoked paprika can add an exciting twist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper for a burst of flavor.

Make the Glaze: In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cracked black pepper. Whisk until well mixed; this sweet-and-spicy concoction will coat the chicken beautifully.

Coat and Bake: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them. Ensure they’re evenly coated so each bite bursts with flavor. Bake for 25-30 minutes until juicy and cooked through.

Cook the Macaroni Pasta: While your chicken bakes, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add in elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter before adding flour; whisk constantly until golden brown. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything Together: Drain your macaroni and fold it into the cheese sauce until well coated. Once your chicken is done, serve it alongside or atop this comforting mac cheese masterpiece.

Now gather around your table as you serve this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese! Your loved ones will be delighted by its flavors while you enjoy making memories together over an unforgettable meal!

You Must Know

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese combines flavors beautifully
Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in comfort food
The aroma of this dish wafts through the kitchen, promising a delightful meal that everyone will remember

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the macaroni while preparing the creamy sauce for a seamless cooking experience.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup or add some jalapeños for an extra kick. Customize your macaroni cheese by mixing in different cheeses or vegetables.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Start with room temperature chicken for more even cooking; it helps achieve that perfect sear
Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust seasoning as needed
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother and creamier macaroni cheese that melts beautifully

Sharing this recipe with friends led to a memorable dinner party where everyone raved about the combination of sweet and spicy flavors. Their smiles made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be great alternatives that still provide sweetness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare both components separately and combine them just before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a delicious plant-based option.

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