Description
A cozy and flavorful dinner, this dish pairs sticky honey pepper glazed chicken with ultra-creamy cheddar mac. The sweet heat from the glaze complements the rich cheese sauce, making each bite deeply satisfying. Perfect for weeknights or sharing with guests.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter (for chicken)
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
8 oz elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook Chicken: In a skillet, melt butter and sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side. Lower heat, add honey and pepper, and glaze until sticky.
- Boil Pasta: Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in cream, bring to simmer, then add cheese and stir until smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Plate glazed chicken beside or over cheesy mac. Garnish as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner