Ingredients
– 2 cups macaroni pasta
– 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating your own Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a straightforward process, especially when you follow these simple steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the diced chicken and season with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink.
3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce: Add honey and black pepper to the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then set aside.
4. Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
5. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Incorporate Cheese: Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until fully melted and combined.
7. Combine Pasta and Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, honey pepper chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g