This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. The crispy chicken tenders, generously coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, are perfectly complemented by the rich and creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for its perfect balance of flavors. The sweet honey sauce, combined with a kick of heat from the crushed red pepper flakes, creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the macaroni. It’s a comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Introduction
In the world of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the classic combination of fried chicken and macaroni and cheese. This recipe elevates those beloved staples by adding a sweet and spicy twist to the chicken while delivering a luxuriously creamy macaroni cheese that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a special occasion, Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is the perfect solution.
Ingredients:
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
For the Creamy Macaroni and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens. Toss the fried chicken tenders in the sauce until fully coated.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add the garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the creamy macaroni and cheese as a base. Top with the honey pepper chicken tenders. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also offer some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Tips:
- Crispier Chicken: For extra crunch, double-coat the chicken by repeating the dredging process.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more!
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and cheese sauce in advance for quicker assembly. You can also cook the macaroni ahead of time and keep it warm until ready to mix with the cheese sauce.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 650
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dining occasion. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta creates a satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy this delicious fusion of flavors and make lasting memories around the dinner table!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach the appropriate internal temperature.
2. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider baking the chicken instead of frying it. You can also use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese in the macaroni for a lighter version.
3. Can I make the macaroni and cheese without using flour?
Yes! You can make a cheese sauce using a cornstarch slurry instead of flour. Simply mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the warm milk while whisking to thicken.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or some garlic bread. The freshness of a salad can balance out the richness of the chicken and macaroni cheese.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The sauce may thicken, so you might want to add a splash of water or milk when reheating the macaroni and cheese.
