Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful fusion of flavors in this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken breast, coated in a luscious honey pepper sauce, paired with creamy macaroni cheese, is the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients:

For the Honey Pepper Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

• 8 ounces macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return them to the skillet with the honey pepper sauce. Coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and set it aside while you prepare the macaroni cheese.
4. Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside.
5. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, approximately 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well coated.
8. To serve, plate the creamy macaroni cheese and top it with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

Conclusion:
With a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, indulge in this comforting dish for a satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy every forkful of this savory-sweet delight!

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese piping hot for the best flavor and texture.
• Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped parsley to add a burst of freshness and color.
• Pair this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
• Accompany with crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce.

1. Storage Instructions:

• Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat the leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of milk to the macaroni cheese if needed to maintain creaminess.
• It’s best to store the chicken and macaroni cheese separately to maintain their individual textures and flavors.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and macaroni cheese in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 1-2 months.
• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

1. Reheating Tips:

• To reheat the frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• When reheating in the microwave, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe wrap to prevent drying out.
• Stir the macaroni cheese occasionally while reheating to ensure even heating.
• For the chicken, reheat it gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese anytime, whether freshly made or as delightful leftovers. Bon appétit!