Description

A tantalizing combination of sweet and spicy chicken paired with rich, creamy mac and cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

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 Method

Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing three bowls: one with the flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat, then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Set the tenders aside on a plate.

Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the skillet. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the fried tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to simmer. If a thicker sauce is desired, mix in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. Toss the fried chicken tenders in the sauce, coating them evenly.

Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, creating a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.

Serve

Spoon a generous portion of the creamy macaroni and cheese onto each plate. Top with the honey pepper chicken tenders, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips and Conclusion

Crispier Chicken: For extra crunch, double-coat the chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb process.

Adjust the Spice: Customize the heat level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Make Ahead: Prepare the honey pepper sauce and cheese sauce in advance to save time during assembly.

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home. Treat your family or guests to a meal they won’t forget. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on our site for your next culinary adventure! 🍯🌶️🥒