Introduction
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect comfort food combination. The crispy chicken is coated in a sticky, sweet, and spicy honey pepper glaze, while the creamy mac and cheese provides the ultimate indulgence. Together, they create a meal that’s flavorful, satisfying, and ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or breast strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Macaroni and Cheese:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
Preparation Tips
- Double coat the chicken for extra crispiness.
- Taste and adjust the spice level in the honey pepper sauce by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother mac and cheese sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and pepper.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip in egg, and then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Set on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
- Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni and Cheese
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground mustard (if using). Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni and stir to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the honey pepper chicken alongside the creamy macaroni and cheese. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Description
The Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is crispy, tender, and coated with a perfectly balanced glaze. The Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is rich, velvety, and comforting. Together, they offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making every bite satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 680
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through. - What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Penne, shells, or cavatappi work well as alternatives. - Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes for a milder glaze.
Recommendations
- Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- Add bacon bits or jalapeños to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate crowd-pleasing meal. The combination of bold flavors and comforting textures makes it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!