Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Cheese (Print)
Creamy cheesy pasta with crispy chicken, honey pepper sauce, bacon, and basil for a comforting meal.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
16 ounces spiral noodles
02 -
25 ounces breaded chicken strips
03 -
5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
04 -
Salt, to taste
05 -
Pepper, to taste
06 -
Fresh basil, for garnish
→ Honey Pepper Sauce
07 -
3/4 cup honey
08 -
1/4 cup light brown sugar
09 -
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
10 -
1/4 cup pineapple juice
11 -
Juice of 1 lemon
12 -
1 tablespoon vinegar
13 -
1 teaspoon black pepper
14 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ Cheese Sauce
15 -
1 stick butter
16 -
2 cups heavy cream
17 -
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
18 -
1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
19 -
3/4 cup freshly shredded colby jack cheese
20 -
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
# Steps:
01 -
Follow package instructions to bake or fry the chicken strips. Once cooked, set them aside.
02 -
Boil the spiral noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 -
Combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until slightly thickened. Allow to cool slightly after simmering.
04 -
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir gradually. Slowly mix in parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack cheese one at a time. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 -
Mix the cooked pasta with the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring even coating. Stir in crumbled bacon for additional flavor.
06 -
Dip cooked chicken strips into the honey pepper sauce until thoroughly coated.
07 -
Plate a generous serving of the pasta mixture, top with the honey pepper chicken strips, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, use freshly shredded cheeses for a smooth and creamy sauce.
02 -
Optional: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.