Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is the culinary hug you never knew you needed. Imagine creamy, dreamy mac and cheese, dancing with spicy, sweet hot honey chicken—it’s like a love affair in your mouth. The crunch of the chicken, the gooeyness of the cheese, and that sweet heat all combine to create a dish that’s simply unforgettable.
As I stirred this glorious concoction on a chilly evening, I couldn’t help but think of family gatherings where everyone gathered around the table, forks in hand, ready for seconds (or thirds). This recipe brings back warm memories and makes every occasion feel like a celebration. Whether it’s game day or just another Tuesday night, this dish promises to elevate your dining experience to new heights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its unique flavor profile combines sweet and spicy notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- This recipe’s versatility allows you to adapt it based on what you have at home or your guests’ preferences.
Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust based on your guest list.
Hot Honey Sauce: A blend of honey and chili flakes gives this dish its signature kick; store-bought works too if you’re in a pinch.
Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for classic comfort; cook until al dente for the best texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for an intense flavor; grate it yourself for better melting quality.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if you prefer.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without overpowering the dish; use it generously!
For the Toppings:
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch to the top of your mac and cheese; toast them lightly before adding for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, season your boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a generous drizzle of hot honey sauce. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Pop those bad boys into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re cooked through and golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is baking, cook your macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while dreaming of cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt about four tablespoons of butter. Add flour gradually to create a roux, stirring constantly until golden brown. Slowly whisk in milk, bringing it to a simmer before adding grated cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Chop up your baked chicken into bite-sized pieces and fold it into your cheesy sauce along with the cooked macaroni. Stir in more hot honey sauce for that sweet heat punch!
Step 6: Bake Again
Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and perhaps a sprinkle of extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional hot honey sauce for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as you bask in waves of comfort!
You Must Know
- This hot honey chicken mac n cheese is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion!
- With creamy cheese, spicy chicken, and a sweet kick, it makes weeknight dinners fun.
- Plus, it’s quick to whip up, leaving you more time to binge-watch your favorite shows.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in that juicy goodness. While it’s cooking, boil your pasta until al dente. As everything simmers happily together, prepare your creamy cheese sauce to create a delicious union of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist! Add some roasted red peppers for extra color or toss in spinach for a health boost. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk for creaminess and microwave until heated through for the best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest mac n cheese, use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for depth.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly firm before mixing with the sauce.
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed!
Sometimes I whip this dish up when friends come over, and their eyes light up with joy as they take their first bite—it’s pure magic!
FAQs:
What is Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a delicious fusion dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with spicy, sweet hot honey-glazed chicken. The dish features tender pasta smothered in a rich cheese sauce, topped with crispy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful hot honey mixture. This unique combination offers a satisfying balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
How do you make Hot Honey Chicken for the Mac N Cheese?
To make Hot Honey Chicken for your Mac N Cheese, start by marinating chicken pieces in your choice of spices. Then, pan-fry or bake the chicken until golden brown. For the hot honey glaze, mix honey with red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste. Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the glaze before serving atop your creamy mac and cheese for an irresistible flavor explosion.
Can I prepare Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese ahead of time. Cook the mac and cheese and chicken separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat both components together or separately, adding extra cheese or hot honey as needed to restore their creamy texture and flavor.
What sides pair well with Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?
When serving Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, consider pairing it with light side dishes that balance its richness. Fresh salads with vinaigrette dressings work well to cut through the creaminess. Grilled vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts also complement the dish nicely while adding color and nutrition to your meal.
Conclusion for Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese:
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy comfort food and a spicy-sweet kick from the hot honey chicken. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also brings excitement to any dinner table. With easy-to-follow steps for preparation and versatile serving options, it’s perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings. Enjoy this tasty recipe that will surely become a family favorite!
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese paired with spicy, sweet hot honey-glazed chicken. This comforting dish features tender pasta enveloped in rich cheese sauce, topped with crispy chicken, creating a flavor explosion that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup hot honey sauce
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and hot honey sauce. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Gradually whisk in flour to create a roux, then add milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in cheddar until melted.
- Chop baked chicken and mix into the cheese sauce along with the macaroni, adding more hot honey for flavor.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added crunch, toast panko breadcrumbs before topping. - Substitute chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for a different twist. - Add veggies like roasted red peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
