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Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that brings together the comforting embrace of macaroni and cheese with an exciting twist: Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish is a perfect harmony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The sweet notes of honey meld seamlessly with the spicy kick of black pepper, creating a unique flavor profile that enhances the classic creaminess of mac and cheese.

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Transform your dinner with this delicious Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! This comforting dish features juicy, baked chicken breasts coated in a sweet and spicy honey marinade, served over creamy, cheesy pasta. The blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella makes for the ultimate indulgent cheese sauce. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight family meal, this recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. Try it tonight!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ teaspoon mustard powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: ¼ cup breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

    - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

      - In a small bowl, mix together the honey, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

        - Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and then coat them with the honey-pepper mixture, ensuring they are well-covered.

          - Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

            Cook the Pasta:

              - In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

                Make the Cheese Sauce:

                  - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

                    - Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken.

                      - Add the mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

                        Combine:

                          - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.

                            - Dice the baked honey pepper chicken into bite-sized pieces and fold it into the mac and cheese mixture.

                              Bake (Optional):

                                - Preheat your oven to broil if you wish to have a crispy topping.

                                  - Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

                                    - Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

                                      Serve:

                                        - Serve the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese warm, garnished with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.

                                          Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Servings: 4