Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by patting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts carefully, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and whisk together 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Add in 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a glossy sauce that will coat your chicken beautifully.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet. Toss the chicken thoroughly in the sweet and spicy honey sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated. Cook together on low heat for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sauce's delicious sweetness.
- While the chicken is absorbing the flavors, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of macaroni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which is usually about 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, ensuring no water remains, and set it aside briefly while you prepare the cheese sauce.
- In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until a light roux forms. Gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens for about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If desired, season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your creamy macaroni cheese.
- Finally, combine the drained macaroni pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure every noodle is coated with that luscious creamy goodness. To serve, plate the macaroni cheese topped with the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant finish. Enjoy your comforting homemade feast!
Nutrition
Notes
For even more flavor, let your chicken marinate in the honey sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Adjust sweetness or heat levels according to your taste; feel free to add more cayenne for extra kick or reduce honey if desired.
