If you’ve ever craved the best of both worlds — comfort and flavor — then Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is your dream come true. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-bite, savoring the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy mac and sweet-spicy glazed chicken.
Each forkful gives you everything: the buttery richness of homemade mac and cheese, the crisp bite of seasoned chicken, and that irresistible honey pepper glaze that hits just the right balance of sweet, smoky, and peppery. It’s comfort food with attitude — indulgent, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or wowing guests, this recipe brings restaurant-level flavor straight to your kitchen — and it’s surprisingly easy to make in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- The perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and sweet-spicy flavors.
- Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Restaurant-style comfort food — right at home.
- Great for family dinners, weekends, or potlucks.
- Customizable: mild or spicy, baked or stovetop style.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This dish takes the classic mac and cheese we all know and love and turns it into something extraordinary. The tender chicken bites are coated in a sticky, peppery honey glaze that perfectly complements the creamy cheese sauce. The sweetness from the honey balances the spice from black pepper and paprika, creating a flavor explosion that’s addictive from the first bite.
Plus, you can make it all in one pan — no complicated steps, no fancy ingredients. Just bold, comforting flavor made for real-life weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup flour (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (for cooking)
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or green onions
- Extra honey drizzle
How to Make Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and cook the chicken
Meanwhile, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and flour until lightly coated.
Next, heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the honey pepper glaze
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add honey, soy sauce, black pepper, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until it begins to bubble and slightly thicken (about 2 minutes).
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing until each piece is coated in the sticky glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the cheese sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine everything
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until well-coated. Spoon into serving bowls, then top generously with the honey pepper chicken and drizzle any extra glaze over the top.
Step 6: Serve hot
Garnish with parsley or green onions and enjoy your sweet, spicy, and cheesy masterpiece!
Tips for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Use freshly grated cheese — It melts smoother and creates the perfect sauce.
- Cook the roux slowly — This removes the raw flour taste and makes a silky base.
- Don’t overcook the chicken — Keep it juicy and tender for the best texture.
- Adjust spice levels — Add or reduce pepper flakes to suit your preference.
- Mix up the cheese — Try adding smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for variety.
- Add a touch of cream — A splash of heavy cream makes the sauce extra rich.
- Use quality honey — A darker, raw honey gives deeper flavor.
- Deglaze the pan — Use a splash of broth to lift those flavorful browned bits.
- Serve immediately — Mac and cheese thickens as it cools.
- Add crunch — Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or bacon bits on top before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
- Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Spicy Buffalo Twist: Add 1 tablespoon hot sauce to the glaze.
- BBQ Honey Pepper Chicken: Swap soy sauce for BBQ sauce in the glaze.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or crispy tofu instead of chicken.
- Loaded Mac: Add cooked bacon, jalapeños, or caramelized onions.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for color and balance.
- Lighter Option: Use milk instead of cream and skip the mozzarella.
- Extra Creamy: Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and tofu for chicken.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
What to Serve With Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
- Garlic bread or buttery biscuits
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
- Sweet corn on the cob for a Southern touch
- Chilled iced tea or lemonade for balance
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
To Freeze:
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly for best texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything, then combine and reheat gently before serving.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely — just toss it in the glaze before serving.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey slightly and add more soy sauce or vinegar.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes — cavatappi, shells, or penne work perfectly.
Can I make it without flour?
Yes — skip the roux and melt cheese directly into warm cream for a quick version.
Can I make it spicy?
Add cayenne, hot sauce, or extra black pepper for a kick.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but it may not melt as smoothly.
Can I bake it after combining?
Yes, top with cheese and breadcrumbs for a bubbly baked version.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use dairy-free milk, butter, and vegan cheese.
Does it taste better the next day?
Yes — the flavors deepen overnight! Just reheat with a splash of milk.