Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with a bold twist! This **Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese** combines crispy chicken bites, sweet honey, and spicy pepper glaze with luscious mac and cheese for a flavor-packed dish that’s impossible to resist. 🧀🍯🌶️
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**Ingredients:**
*For the Chicken:*
– 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
*For the Honey Pepper Glaze:*
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
*For the Mac and Cheese:*
– 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Directions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
– Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
– Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
2. **Make the Honey Pepper Glaze:**
– In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
3. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
– Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened.
– Add the cheddar, Parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
– Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until well coated.
5. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Toss the fried chicken bites in the honey pepper glaze.
– Serve the glazed chicken on top of the mac and cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese, if desired.
Prep Time:** 15 minutes
Cooking Time:** 25 minutes
Total Time:** 40 minutes
Calories:** 780 kcal per serving
Servings:** 4 servings
Would you try this sweet, spicy, and cheesy creation? It’s the ultimate comfort food with a bold twist!
