Description
This recipe combines the comforting classic of mac and cheese with a flavorful honey pepper chicken for a sweet, spicy, and cheesy delight. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g (1lb 1oz) chicken breast, cut into 2cm cubes: For tender, juicy chicken.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) honey: Adds sweetness and complements the pepper.
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) low-sodium soy sauce: Provides umami flavor.
- 1 tsp (5ml) black pepper: For a bold, pungent kick.
- 1 tsp (5ml) white pepper: Adds subtle earthy heat.
- 1 tsp (5ml) smoked paprika: Introduces smoky flavor.
- 1 tsp (5ml) garlic powder: For consistent garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp (5ml) onion powder: Adds a savory base note.
- 1 tsp (5ml) cornstarch: Helps chicken brown and become crispy.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil: For sautéing the chicken.
- 200g (7oz) elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape.
- 300ml (1 ¼ cup) whole milk: Forms the base of the cheese sauce.
- 150ml (⅔ cup) heavy cream: Adds extra richness.
- 150g (5oz) cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides classic cheesy flavor.
- 50g (1½oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds stretch and gooeyness.
- 30g (2 Tbsp) unsalted butter: Used to create the roux.
- 30g (2 Tbsp) all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce.
- ½ tsp (2.5ml) mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang.
- ¼ tsp (1.25ml) nutmeg: Provides a warm, aromatic note.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all flavors.
- ½ tsp (2.5ml) black pepper: Adds spice to the cheese sauce.
- 1 Tbsp (15g) panko breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy topping.
- 1 tsp (5ml) melted butter: Helps breadcrumbs adhere.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, umami flavor.
- 1 tsp (5ml) sesame seeds: Provides nutty flavor.
- 1 Tbsp (15g) cilantro, chopped: Adds fresh flavor and color.
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine chicken with honey, soy sauce, peppers, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cornstarch. Marinate for 10-30 minutes.
- Sear Chicken: Heat oil and sear chicken for 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil macaroni for 8-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain.
- Prepare Roux: Melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute.
- Create Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk and cream, cook until thickened.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Combine & Bake: Add macaroni to sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with panko mixture, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Glaze Chicken: Return marinade to skillet and cook for 2 minutes, until thickened.
- Plate & Garnish: Serve mac and cheese with glazed chicken, drizzle with honey, and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Notes
For a smoother sauce, whisk constantly while adding dairy. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg