What happens when crispy honey pepper chicken meets ultra-creamy mac and cheese? You get a dish that hits every craving in one bite—sweet, savory, crunchy, cheesy, and just a hint of heat. This recipe takes comfort food to the next level with golden-fried chicken bites drizzled in a sweet peppery glaze over a velvety bed of mac and cheese.

Perfect for weekend indulgence or when you’re trying to impress dinner guests without the stress, this dish looks like it came from a restaurant but comes together in your own kitchen. With just a few clever techniques, you can master both the rich cheese sauce and the addictive crunch on that honey-pepper chicken.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this crave-worthy recipe, set yourself up with the right tools. A large non-stick skillet is essential for getting a smooth, even cheese sauce without burning. A deep fryer or air fryer ensures those chicken bites come out crisp and golden, not soggy. For the pasta, stick with a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking as it boils. Lastly, a whisk and slotted spoon will become your best friends for stirring and draining efficiently.

Having everything laid out—your mise en place—is crucial for a dish with multiple elements. It keeps the workflow smooth and helps you nail each component perfectly.

Ingredients for the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Elbow Macaroni: The base of the dish. Its shape captures the creamy sauce in every bite.
Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, melty foundation for our cheese sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a gooey, stretchy quality.
Butter: Helps build the roux and adds richness.
Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce.
Milk: A creamy liquid base for the sauce.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless): Cubed and fried for that crispy protein topping.
Cornstarch and Flour Mix: Coats the chicken for a crisp exterior.
Honey: For sweetness in the glaze.
Cracked Black Pepper: Adds that subtle, bold bite.
Soy Sauce: Balances the honey and intensifies the glaze flavor.
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For frying or air frying the chicken.

How To Make the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Step 1: Boil and Drain the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Cheese Sauce

In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt butter and stir in flour to form a roux. Whisk constantly for about 2 minutes, then slowly add milk, whisking out any lumps. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Prep and Fry the Chicken

Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a mix of flour and cornstarch. Air fry or deep fry the pieces at 375°F until golden and crisp (around 8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

In a small saucepan, mix honey, cracked black pepper, and soy sauce. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened and sticky. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the glaze to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Place the creamy mac and cheese into bowls. Top generously with the honey pepper chicken bites. Drizzle extra glaze over the top for maximum flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Serve this dish hot, right after combining the elements. It’s best enjoyed when the chicken is still crispy and the cheese sauce is warm and silky. Garnish with a light sprinkle of parsley or cracked black pepper for a touch of freshness.

To store leftovers, separate the chicken from the mac and cheese to preserve the texture. Store both in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the mac and cheese on the stovetop with a splash of milk, and crisp up the chicken in the air fryer or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta works best for this dish?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can use shells, cavatappi, or even penne. Just choose something that holds sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mac and cheese and the chicken separately. Reheat and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.

What can I substitute for chicken breast?

Chicken thighs or tofu work great. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is the honey pepper glaze?

It has a mild kick. For more heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the roux and chicken coating with a gluten-free blend.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes works. Use a wire rack for even crisping.

Want More Comfort Food Pasta Ideas?

If cheesy and hearty dishes speak your language, you’ll love some of these:

The Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a hands-off version of your favorite side. Or check out the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a meatier take with rich tomato flavor.

Want a spicy twist? The Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta brings serious heat. And for game day favorites, Buffalo Chicken Lasagna turns up the flavor volume.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food board for future cravings. Just click the Pin button.

If you try it, I want to hear how it went! Did you go extra spicy? Did your chicken come out ultra crispy? Leave a comment below. And if you’re looking for even more crave-worthy dinners and cheesy bakes, check out my Pinterest for daily recipes: LadyPlate on Pinterest.

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy glazed chicken over a bed of velvety mac and cheese—this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is the ultimate comfort food fusion. Sweet, savory, and cheesy with just the right kick, it’s a dish you’ll come back to all year long.

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook macaroni until al dente (7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in milk while whisking. Simmer until slightly thickened.

3. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

4. Coat chicken bites with a mix of flour and cornstarch. Air fry or deep fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

5. In a small saucepan, combine honey, cracked black pepper, and soy sauce. Simmer until thickened slightly. Toss the fried chicken in the glaze until coated.

6. Spoon mac and cheese into bowls. Top with honey pepper chicken. Drizzle with extra glaze if desired. Serve hot.