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–+ servings
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Irresistible Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese You'll Love

A comforting and customizable Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese that brings restaurant flavors to your home. Perfect for busy weeknights!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless Chicken Breasts Can be swapped with thighs for a juicier texture.
  • 2 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced finely.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds a spicy kick.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells Can use other pasta shapes if preferred.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded cheese melts better.
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Pure Honey Avoid processed honey for best results.
  • 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Adds umami depth.
Additional Ingredients
  • 1 spray Nonstick Cooking Spray Prevents sticking during baking.
  • 1/4 cup Milk or Pasta Water Use to adjust sauce consistency.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Large pot

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Sauté in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add pasta shells and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and do not rinse.
  4. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Pour over cooked chicken and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  5. Return pasta to the pot, add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Add milk or pasta water as needed for consistency.
  6. Layer pasta in the prepared dish, top with sliced glazed chicken, and drizzle remaining glaze.
  7. Bake for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be customized with veggies or spicy elements like sriracha. Prepare up to the baking point for make-ahead meals.

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