Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a decadent, flavor-packed comfort food dish that’s rich, cheesy, and infused with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Featuring tender chicken bites coated in a creamy honey-pepper sauce and mixed with pasta and melty cheese, this recipe delivers indulgence in every bite—ideal for a cozy family dinner or when you’re craving something truly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mac and cheese variation takes the classic to new heights with bold flavors and creamy texture.
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Sweet and savory twist: The honey and black pepper create a perfect flavor contrast.
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Ultra-creamy texture: Thanks to a combination of heavy cream, cheddar, and mozzarella.
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Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy pasta, and adults appreciate the flavor complexity.
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Customizable: Easily adapt with different cheeses or added veggies.
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One-pot potential: Simple enough for weeknight cooking, yet indulgent enough for special occasions.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
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1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 tablespoon butter
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: chopped parsley, for garnish
directions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, and season with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
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Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in the honey. Let it bubble slightly to coat the chicken, about 1 minute.
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Add the heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Gradually add in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until evenly coated in the sauce.
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Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Add heat: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
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Veggie boost: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition.
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Different cheeses: Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for flavor variations.
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Swap the meat: Use cooked shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
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Bake it: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and more cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate upon reheating.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it after the sauce is prepared and heat through before mixing with pasta.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild peppery kick, but you can increase or reduce the black pepper to taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, make the full recipe and reheat gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture.
What kind of honey should I use?
Any liquid honey works, but raw or wildflower honey adds the most flavor.
Can I make this without heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni and cavatappi both work well for holding the creamy sauce.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and gives a better texture.
How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?
Use low heat when melting the cheese and stir continuously for a smooth consistency.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Not ideally. The cream sauce may separate and lose texture after freezing and reheating.
What side dishes pair well with this?
A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.
Conclusion
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—combining bold flavor, rich texture, and cheesy goodness in every forkful. With its sweet-savory balance and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite or a go-to when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. Serve it up hot and watch it disappear.
Print
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
Description
This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is a rich, flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese. With tender chicken, melty cheddar and mozzarella, a hint of honey, and a kick of pepper, this comfort dish is perfect for dinner or entertaining!
Ingredients
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12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
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1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp honey
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or red pepper flakes
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add chicken. Season with garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in honey, coating the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Add heavy cream to the pan, bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Notes
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For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of cream cheese.
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Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.
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Great with a side salad or roasted veggies.
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