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Decadent Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese Bake Bliss - Featured Image

Decadent Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese Bake Bliss

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Learn how to make delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese Bake. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Feel free to experiment with the cheeses based on what you have at home. Gouda or Monterey Jack would make lovely substitutes. And if you’re out of chicken, leftover turkey works just as well!

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, honey, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the chicken evenly and cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is slightly caramelized. Set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste and smells slightly nutty.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the garlic powder and salt. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix until the pasta and chicken are fully coated.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Remember, cooking is about creativity and joy. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. This dish is all about bringing your own flair to the table.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International