Description
This Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with creamy Mac and Cheese is a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The tender baked chicken breasts glazed with a honey-soy-hot sauce mixture provide a flavorful main dish, complemented perfectly by the rich, cheesy macaroni side. Ready in just 40 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for a family dinner or casual weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Mac and Cheese
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring both sides are covered.
- Prepare Honey Pepper Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful glaze for the chicken.
- Coat and Bake Chicken: Brush the prepared sauce over the chicken breasts, coating them generously. Place the chicken on a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook Macaroni: While the chicken bakes, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and return it to the pot.
- Make Creamy Mac and Cheese: Stir the butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese into the hot macaroni, mixing continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Plate the baked honey pepper chicken alongside a generous serving of the creamy mac and cheese. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal warm.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the heat level to your preference.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or more milk to the mac and cheese.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking with a meat thermometer for safety.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Leftover mac and cheese can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk for added creaminess.
