Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors with this delightful recipe for Honey Pepper Chicken served over a bed of creamy Macaroni Cheese. A comforting and satisfying dish that will please both kids and adults alike.
Author:nadia
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying, Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
1lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into pieces
1/2cup cornstarch
2 eggs, beaten
1/2cup flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
1/3cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:
8oz elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2cups milk
1 1/2cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Prepare the chicken: Season flour and cornstarch with salt and pepper in separate bowls. Dredge chicken pieces in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat in cornstarch. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Make the sauce: Combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened, 1–2 minutes. Toss fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Serve sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken over a bed of creamy macaroni cheese. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
Adjust the red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
Use rotini or shells in place of elbow macaroni if preferred.
For added crunch, serve with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or bacon bits.