Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Meal prep just got a serious upgrade! Introducing my Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese bowls—a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy goodness that you won’t be able to resist! 🍗🧀 Juicy chicken thighs glazed in a honey pepper sauce, served with creamy, cheesy mac for the ultimate comfort food fix! 😋 Make a delicious bowl of this combo for those cozy nights or busy days when you need something quick and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of honey and pepper creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and spicy.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this recipe is quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy date nights. Enjoy it any time!
• Comforting Dish: Creamy mac and cheese paired with succulent chicken offers a heartwarming meal experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome substitutes that keep the dish flavorful without compromising health.

Tools and Preparation

Getting your kitchen ready is essential for making this Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Pasta pot
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Allows you to cook chicken quickly while keeping it juicy and crispy without excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for marinating chicken and mixing ingredients efficiently.
• Saucepan: Ideal for preparing your sauce evenly without burning.
• Grater: Makes cheese preparation easy, ensuring even melting in your mac and cheese.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 16 oz Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
• 3/4 cup Wholesome Yum Keto Honey Substitute
• 1/4 cup 100% Pineapple Juice
• 1/4 cup Light Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Splenda Brown Sugar
• 3 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/3 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 oz Al Dente Carba Nada Cavatappi (dry)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3/8 cup Lite Shredded Mozzarella (Trader Joe’s)
• 3/8 cup Lite Shredded 3 Cheese Blend (Trader Joe’s)
• 2 wedges Light Laughing Cow Creamy Cheese
• 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan
• 1-1/2 slices Velveeta Cheese
• 1/2 cup Fat Free Evaporated Milk
• 1 tsp Black Pepper

How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut up your chicken into bite-sized pieces, place in a bowl, and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey substitute, pineapple juice, light soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a quick boil and then turn off.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour just less than half of your sauce over the chicken pieces. Mix well to coat.
2. Place the marinated chicken in the fridge for 15-30 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Air fry your chicken in two batches at 400°F for 15 minutes each.
2. Move the chicken pieces around halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Once cooked, transfer to a clean mixing bowl.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

1. While your first batch of chicken is cooking, start boiling your pasta according to package instructions.
2. Once done boiling, drain it and return it to the pot.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. To the drained pasta, add evaporated milk along with all cheeses and black pepper.
2. Stir until cheeses are fully melted and mixed well.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Reheat your sauce briefly before pouring it over the cooked chicken. Mix until every piece is coated.
2. Assemble your meal prep containers by layering pasta first followed by chicken on top.

Step 7: Serve!

Top with parsley if desired and enjoy your delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Servings: [‘4’]
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT45M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 544 kcal

How to Serve Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is all about creativity and making it a delightful experience. Here are some fun suggestions to elevate your meal!

Bowl Style

• Layered Bowls: Start with a bed of mac and cheese, top with honey pepper chicken, and finish with fresh herbs for an eye-catching presentation.
• Meal Prep Containers: Perfect for busy days! Pack individual servings in containers for grab-and-go lunches.

With Fresh Ingredients

• Garnish with Greenery: Add fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with Veggies: Pair with steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to add a nutritious crunch.

As a Casserole

• Baked Variation: Transfer the assembled mac and cheese and chicken into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting casserole.

How to Perfect Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

To achieve the best version of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Seasoning: Enhance the flavor by marinating the chicken longer than 30 minutes if you can.
• Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors; try adding pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Perfect Pasta Cooking: Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain texture when mixed with sauces.
• Sauce Consistency: Ensure your sauce is thick enough to coat the chicken without being watery; adjust by simmering longer if needed.
• Air Frying Technique: For crispy chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket during cooking.
• Finishing Touches: Drizzle extra honey or spicy sauce on top before serving for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Pairing sides with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic, buttery side that complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: Crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the dish.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide a crisp texture that contrasts well with creamy pasta.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a tasty and healthy side option.
5. Caesar Salad: A light salad tossed in Caesar dressing adds a zingy element to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings an additional layer of flavor that pairs nicely with honey chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the marinade time: Skipping the marinating step reduces flavor. Always allow your chicken to soak in the sauce for at least 15-30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long results in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Guessing on ingredient amounts can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the cheese mixing step: Not mixing melted cheeses thoroughly can leave clumps. Stir until everything is evenly blended for a creamy consistency.
• Cooking chicken in one batch: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for consistent doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best enjoyed within 2-3 months; label with date.

Reheating Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can customize your cheese blend based on personal preferences or what you have on hand.

How do I make it spicier?

To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Can I substitute chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Feel free to use chicken breasts or even turkey as an alternative.

How do I store leftovers of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep; just assemble portions in containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is not just delicious but also versatile. You can adjust the spice levels or switch up the cheeses, making it a perfect fit for any palate. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting dish; it’s sure to become a favorite!