Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

by
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (227 g): This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce well. - 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces (454 g): Choose fresh chicken for the best taste. - 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml): This oil adds flavor and helps cook the chicken. - Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste: Season to enhance the dish's overall taste. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g): This spice adds a warm, smoky flavor to the chicken. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1 g): It brings a nice garlic flavor without too much fuss. - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (1 g): This adds depth to the chicken's taste. - 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml): It creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats everything. - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (113 g): Look for a good-quality brand for the best melt. - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature (120 g): This helps thicken the sauce and adds richness. - 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml): It balances the spice with a touch of sweetness. - 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (1 g): Adjust this for a kick in flavor. - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Use for a crunchy texture on top when baked. - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: This adds color and freshness to the dish. Each ingredient plays a key role in making creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese a delight. When you gather them, think about quality. Fresh ingredients make your meal even better. For detailed cooking steps, refer to the Full Recipe. To cook the macaroni, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once boiling, add 8 oz of elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside. To avoid stickiness, toss it with a little olive oil while it cools. Next, let’s prepare the chicken. Take 1 lb of diced chicken breast and season it well. Use salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix the spices so every piece is coated. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes. Stir often until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. You can check this by cutting a piece in half. If the inside is white, it’s done! Remove it from the heat and set it aside. Now, we’ll make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Heat it over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. To add flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spice to your liking. It’s time to mix everything! Add the cooked macaroni and the chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta and chicken in the creamy goodness. Taste the mixture to check the seasoning. Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor! If you want a crispy top, you can bake it. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it with 1 cup of breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until the top is golden brown and crispy. This step adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy dish. Enjoy your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To boost the taste of your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, consider adding some spices. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or some dried thyme for earthiness. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. For extra spice, increase the black pepper. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance. One common mistake is letting the cheese clump. To avoid this, add cheese slowly and stir well. Make sure the cream mixture is warm but not boiling. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, cook the macaroni and chicken first. Mix them with the cheese sauce, but leave out any breadcrumbs or baking steps. Store in the fridge, and then bake when you’re ready to serve. Pair your mac and cheese with a light salad or steamed vegetables. This helps balance the creamy dish. For a fun twist, serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can also plate it neatly for a formal touch. The bright colors of the parsley can really make your dish pop. {{image_4}} You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp, turkey, or tofu work well. If using shrimp, cook it for just 3-4 minutes until pink. For turkey, use ground turkey. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes. Tofu can be cubed and sautéed for a tasty vegetarian option. You may need to adjust the spices to match your protein choice. Not a fan of cheddar? You can use gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. For a vegan option, try cashew cheese or a store-bought vegan cheese. Just ensure it melts well for that creamy texture. You can easily add vegetables to your mac and cheese. Spinach, broccoli, or peas are great choices. They add color and nutrition. For toppings, consider crispy bacon, fried onions, or extra cheese. These little touches can elevate your dish to the next level. Feel free to experiment and see what you love the most! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To store your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, use an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Allow it to cool before sealing. Place it in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to three days. For longer storage, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, place the dish in a bowl. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can freeze creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best results. To make this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta. Look for brands like Barilla or Banza, which offer great texture. For breadcrumbs, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Both options work well as a topping. Yes, you can! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to switch it up. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well. Choose a shape that holds sauce nicely. The key is to cook it until al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy. If you need a dairy-free option, use cashew cream or silken tofu. Both provide a creamy texture. You can also try a dairy-free cream cheese spread. Just ensure it has a similar tangy flavor to match the dish. To lighten up this recipe, use low-fat cream cheese and replace heavy cream with skim milk or unsweetened almond milk. Reduce the amount of cheese, too. You can add more spices for flavor without the extra calories. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Cook the pasta and chicken, then mix them with the sauce. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or on the stove. If you bake it, top with breadcrumbs right before baking for a fresh crunch. For the full recipe, visit the link provided. This blog post covered all you need to know for a tasty macaroni and cheese dish. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and clever tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to customize the recipe and keep leftovers fresh. Remember, experimenting with different proteins and cheeses can lead to exciting new flavors. Enjoy every bite, and make this dish your own at every meal. Your kitchen adventures can lead to delicious memories for you and your loved ones!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to dive into a bowl of Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight? This dish combines juicy chicken, rich cheese, and just the right kick of heat. Make it for a family dinner or a cozy night in. I’ll guide you through each step, from picking ingredients to the perfect baking technique. Let’s make this creamy dream a reality and wow your taste buds!

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Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz elbow macaroni (227 g): This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce well.

– 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces (454 g): Choose fresh chicken for the best taste.

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml): This oil adds flavor and helps cook the chicken.

– Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste: Season to enhance the dish’s overall taste.

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g): This spice adds a warm, smoky flavor to the chicken.

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1 g): It brings a nice garlic flavor without too much fuss.

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (1 g): This adds depth to the chicken’s taste.

– 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml): It creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats everything.

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (113 g): Look for a good-quality brand for the best melt.

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature (120 g): This helps thicken the sauce and adds richness.

– 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml): It balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (1 g): Adjust this for a kick in flavor.

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Use for a crunchy texture on top when baked.

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: This adds color and freshness to the dish.

Each ingredient plays a key role in making creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese a delight. When you gather them, think about quality. Fresh ingredients make your meal even better. For detailed cooking steps, refer to the Full Recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Macaroni

To cook the macaroni, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once boiling, add 8 oz of elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside. To avoid stickiness, toss it with a little olive oil while it cools.

Preparing the Chicken

Next, let’s prepare the chicken. Take 1 lb of diced chicken breast and season it well. Use salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix the spices so every piece is coated. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes. Stir often until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. You can check this by cutting a piece in half. If the inside is white, it’s done! Remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

Now, we’ll make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Heat it over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. To add flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spice to your liking.

Combining Ingredients

It’s time to mix everything! Add the cooked macaroni and the chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta and chicken in the creamy goodness. Taste the mixture to check the seasoning. Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor!

Optional Baking Instructions

If you want a crispy top, you can bake it. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it with 1 cup of breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until the top is golden brown and crispy. This step adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy dish. Enjoy your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the taste of your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, consider adding some spices. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or some dried thyme for earthiness. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. For extra spice, increase the black pepper. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Cooking Techniques

One common mistake is letting the cheese clump. To avoid this, add cheese slowly and stir well. Make sure the cream mixture is warm but not boiling. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, cook the macaroni and chicken first. Mix them with the cheese sauce, but leave out any breadcrumbs or baking steps. Store in the fridge, and then bake when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your mac and cheese with a light salad or steamed vegetables. This helps balance the creamy dish. For a fun twist, serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can also plate it neatly for a formal touch. The bright colors of the parsley can really make your dish pop.

Variations

Protein Substitutions

You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp, turkey, or tofu work well. If using shrimp, cook it for just 3-4 minutes until pink. For turkey, use ground turkey. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes. Tofu can be cubed and sautéed for a tasty vegetarian option. You may need to adjust the spices to match your protein choice.

Cheese Alternatives

Not a fan of cheddar? You can use gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. For a vegan option, try cashew cheese or a store-bought vegan cheese. Just ensure it melts well for that creamy texture.

Add-Ins and Customizations

You can easily add vegetables to your mac and cheese. Spinach, broccoli, or peas are great choices. They add color and nutrition. For toppings, consider crispy bacon, fried onions, or extra cheese. These little touches can elevate your dish to the next level. Feel free to experiment and see what you love the most!

For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, use an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Allow it to cool before sealing. Place it in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to three days. For longer storage, transfer it to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, place the dish in a bowl. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.

Freezing Guidelines

You can freeze creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best results.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta. Look for brands like Barilla or Banza, which offer great texture. For breadcrumbs, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Both options work well as a topping.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to switch it up. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well. Choose a shape that holds sauce nicely. The key is to cook it until al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you need a dairy-free option, use cashew cream or silken tofu. Both provide a creamy texture. You can also try a dairy-free cream cheese spread. Just ensure it has a similar tangy flavor to match the dish.

How do I make a lighter version?

To lighten up this recipe, use low-fat cream cheese and replace heavy cream with skim milk or unsweetened almond milk. Reduce the amount of cheese, too. You can add more spices for flavor without the extra calories.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Cook the pasta and chicken, then mix them with the sauce. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or on the stove. If you bake it, top with breadcrumbs right before baking for a fresh crunch.

For the full recipe, visit the link provided.

This blog post covered all you need to know for a tasty macaroni and cheese dish. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and clever tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to customize the recipe and keep leftovers fresh. Remember, experimenting with different proteins and cheeses can lead to exciting new flavors. Enjoy every bite, and make this dish your own at every meal. Your kitchen adventures can lead to delicious memories for you and your loved ones!

- 8 oz elbow macaroni (227 g): This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce well. - 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces (454 g): Choose fresh chicken for the best taste. - 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml): This oil adds flavor and helps cook the chicken. - Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste: Season to enhance the dish's overall taste. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2 g): This spice adds a warm, smoky flavor to the chicken. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1 g): It brings a nice garlic flavor without too much fuss. - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (1 g): This adds depth to the chicken's taste. - 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml): It creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats everything. - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (113 g): Look for a good-quality brand for the best melt. - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature (120 g): This helps thicken the sauce and adds richness. - 2 tablespoons honey (30 ml): It balances the spice with a touch of sweetness. - 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (1 g): Adjust this for a kick in flavor. - 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Use for a crunchy texture on top when baked. - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: This adds color and freshness to the dish. Each ingredient plays a key role in making creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese a delight. When you gather them, think about quality. Fresh ingredients make your meal even better. For detailed cooking steps, refer to the Full Recipe. To cook the macaroni, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once boiling, add 8 oz of elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it firm but not hard. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside. To avoid stickiness, toss it with a little olive oil while it cools. Next, let’s prepare the chicken. Take 1 lb of diced chicken breast and season it well. Use salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix the spices so every piece is coated. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes. Stir often until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink. You can check this by cutting a piece in half. If the inside is white, it’s done! Remove it from the heat and set it aside. Now, we’ll make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese. Heat it over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. To add flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spice to your liking. It’s time to mix everything! Add the cooked macaroni and the chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta and chicken in the creamy goodness. Taste the mixture to check the seasoning. Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor! If you want a crispy top, you can bake it. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it with 1 cup of breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. Place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely until the top is golden brown and crispy. This step adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy dish. Enjoy your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To boost the taste of your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, consider adding some spices. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or some dried thyme for earthiness. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more honey. For extra spice, increase the black pepper. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance. One common mistake is letting the cheese clump. To avoid this, add cheese slowly and stir well. Make sure the cream mixture is warm but not boiling. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, cook the macaroni and chicken first. Mix them with the cheese sauce, but leave out any breadcrumbs or baking steps. Store in the fridge, and then bake when you’re ready to serve. Pair your mac and cheese with a light salad or steamed vegetables. This helps balance the creamy dish. For a fun twist, serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can also plate it neatly for a formal touch. The bright colors of the parsley can really make your dish pop. {{image_4}} You can switch the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp, turkey, or tofu work well. If using shrimp, cook it for just 3-4 minutes until pink. For turkey, use ground turkey. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes. Tofu can be cubed and sautéed for a tasty vegetarian option. You may need to adjust the spices to match your protein choice. Not a fan of cheddar? You can use gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. For a vegan option, try cashew cheese or a store-bought vegan cheese. Just ensure it melts well for that creamy texture. You can easily add vegetables to your mac and cheese. Spinach, broccoli, or peas are great choices. They add color and nutrition. For toppings, consider crispy bacon, fried onions, or extra cheese. These little touches can elevate your dish to the next level. Feel free to experiment and see what you love the most! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To store your creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, use an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh. Allow it to cool before sealing. Place it in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to three days. For longer storage, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, place the dish in a bowl. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can freeze creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best results. To make this creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta. Look for brands like Barilla or Banza, which offer great texture. For breadcrumbs, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Both options work well as a topping. Yes, you can! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to switch it up. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work well. Choose a shape that holds sauce nicely. The key is to cook it until al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy. If you need a dairy-free option, use cashew cream or silken tofu. Both provide a creamy texture. You can also try a dairy-free cream cheese spread. Just ensure it has a similar tangy flavor to match the dish. To lighten up this recipe, use low-fat cream cheese and replace heavy cream with skim milk or unsweetened almond milk. Reduce the amount of cheese, too. You can add more spices for flavor without the extra calories. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Cook the pasta and chicken, then mix them with the sauce. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or on the stove. If you bake it, top with breadcrumbs right before baking for a fresh crunch. For the full recipe, visit the link provided. This blog post covered all you need to know for a tasty macaroni and cheese dish. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and clever tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to customize the recipe and keep leftovers fresh. Remember, experimenting with different proteins and cheeses can lead to exciting new flavors. Enjoy every bite, and make this dish your own at every meal. Your kitchen adventures can lead to delicious memories for you and your loved ones!

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Indulge in a delicious twist on comfort food with this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a touch of honey to create the ultimate cheesy delight. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, it's easy to make in just 30 minutes. Click through to explore this recipe and elevate your mac and cheese game today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)

1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt, freshly ground pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

      Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the skillet from heat and set the chicken aside.

        In a separate medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Heat over low temperature, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

          Gradually incorporate the grated sharp cheddar cheese into the cream mixture, stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

            Stir in the honey and freshly cracked black pepper to the cheese sauce, tasting to adjust the sweetness and spiciness as desired.

              Add the cooked macaroni and the sautéed chicken to the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are well-coated with the creamy sauce.

                If you prefer a baked dish, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch, and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

                  Serve the mac and cheese hot, generously garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?