Description
A cozy, heartwarming bowl of mac and cheese kicked up a notch with honey-glazed chicken and a dash of black pepper, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, a sprinkle of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked.
- Add honey and pepper: Drizzle honey over the cooked chicken and sprinkle with black pepper. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat. Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is completely melted and smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then gently mix in the honey pepper chicken.
- Bake: Transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the flavors and warmth!
Notes
For a healthier option, swap in whole wheat macaroni or experiment with different types of cheese. Can be frozen for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, honey glazed chicken, comfort food, one pot meal, family dinner