Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Creating Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a simple process if you follow these steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced cooked chicken, honey, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and caramelized. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
4. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth. This will take about 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and well combined. Add the Dijon mustard and paprika, mixing well.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and honey pepper chicken. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the top is slightly golden.
9. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Following these steps will ensure you create a delicious and satisfying Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 35g