Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

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This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is the perfect combination of bold flavors and comfort food. The chicken boasts a delightful blend of sweet honey, a hint of spice, and savory seasoning, while the macaroni cheese is rich, creamy, and indulgent. Together, they create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a special treat.

Ingredients

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked according to package instructions
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a small bowl, mix honey, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and chili flakes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium, then pour the honey mixture over the chicken. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken to glaze it evenly.
  4. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.

Step 2: Make the Macaroni Cheese

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  2. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
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Step 3: Serve

  1. Plate the honey pepper chicken alongside the creamy macaroni cheese.
  2. Garnish with extra parsley or chili flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a show-stopping dish that combines bold flavors with classic comfort. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. This recipe is quick to prepare yet indulgent, perfect for when you want to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips

  1. Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper and chili flakes for a milder version.
  2. Use Bone-In Chicken: For more flavor, try using bone-in thighs or drumsticks.
  3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare the macaroni cheese in advance and reheat before serving to save time.
  5. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Enjoy this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese—a deliciously comforting and flavorful delight!

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