Honey Pepper Chicken Mac And Cheese

Ingredients

1 16 ounces box spiral noodles

1 25 ounces bag breaded chicken strips

5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled

Salt and Pepper to taste

Basil for garnish

Honey Pepper Sauce:

3/4 c honey

1/4 c light brown sugar

3 tablespoon soy sauce low sodium

1/4 c pineapple juice

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon vinegar

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Cheese Sauce:

1 stick butter

2 c heavy cream

1/2 c shredded parmesan cheese

1 c mozzarella cheese freshly shredded

3/4 c colby jack cheese freshly shredded

2-3 cloves minced garlic

Chopped fresh basil

Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the chicken by following the instructions, on the package.

You have the option to either bake or fry the chicken strips.

Once cooked set them aside.

Step 2:

Next, cook the noodles by boiling them according to the instructions on the package until they’re al dente.

Then drain them.

Step 3:

To make the honey pepper sauce combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper and cayenne pepper in a saucepan.

Bring it to a boil.

Let it simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Allow it to cool down a bit after simmering.

Step 4:

In a pan melt butter.

Add heavy cream to create a cheese sauce.

Gradually stir in parmesan, mozzarella and colby jack cheese after each addition.

Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5:

Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce.

Mix everything well together.

Don’t forget to stir in some bacon for added flavor.

Step 6:

Take your chicken strips.

Dip them into the honey pepper sauce so that they are thoroughly coated.

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Step 7:

Now you can serve your dish!

Plate up some of that pasta mixture.

Top it off with those flavorful honey pepper chicken strips.

Finally garnish, with some basil leaves if desired or even add bacon if you’re feeling indulgent.

Step 8:

Enjoy your mouthwatering Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Notes:

Flavor Combination: This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, and cheese with the sweetness and spice of a honey pepper sauce, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile.

Texture Variety: The dish offers a variety of textures, from the creamy cheese sauce to the crispy chicken strips and crumbled bacon, providing a satisfying eating experience.

Customizable: The recipe allows for customization based on personal preference. For example, you can adjust the amount of honey or spices in the sauce to suit your taste.

Convenience: While some steps require preparation, such as cooking the chicken and boiling the noodles, the recipe overall is straightforward and can be easily followed by home cooks.

Balance of Sweet and Savory: The honey pepper sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, balancing well with the savory elements of the chicken, bacon, and cheese.

Presentation: Garnishing with fresh basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and freshness of the dish when served.

Indulgent Comfort Food: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish that is perfect for satisfying cravings or serving at gatherings and potlucks.

Family-Friendly: This recipe is likely to be enjoyed by both kids and adults due to its familiar flavors and comforting nature.

Meal Versatility: While it can be enjoyed as a standalone meal, you can also pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add more nutritional balance to the dish.

Make-Ahead Option: While best served fresh, you can prepare components of this dish in advance, such as cooking the chicken or making the honey pepper sauce, to streamline the cooking process.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if spiral noodles are not available.

Any pasta shape of your preference will work well in this recipe.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of breaded chicken strips?

Absolutely, you can use pre-cooked chicken or even grilled chicken if you prefer.

Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the flavors of the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the chicken and bacon.

Simply focus on the pasta and cheese sauce, and you can add additional vegetables for texture and flavor.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the honey pepper sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper used in the honey pepper sauce according to your preference.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove, stirring continuously until smooth.

Can I use different types of cheese for the cheese sauce?

Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference.

Cheddar, gouda, or fontina would also work well in this recipe.

Is the honey pepper sauce suitable for other dishes?

Yes, the honey pepper sauce is versatile and can be used as a glaze for grilled meats, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for appetizers.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it.

When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version or simply don’t want to include it.

The dish will still be flavorful with the combination of cheese, chicken, and honey pepper sauce.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.