Name: Delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac: 5 Comforting Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup milk; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup hot honey; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Hot Honey Chicken Mac is a delightful twist on your classic mac and cheese that combines creamy textures with a sweet-heat sensation. This dish features tender chicken thighs seared to perfection, all enveloped in a rich cheese sauce and a drizzle of hot honey. The result? A comforting meal that excites the taste buds and warms the heart. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Chicken Mac

This hot honey chicken mac is not only flavorful but also offers numerous benefits. First, it’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy nights. Second, the combination of sweet and spicy makes it a unique culinary experience with the spicy honey chicken macaroni twist. Third, it’s a one-pot meal, saving you time on cleanup. Fourth, it’s easily customizable with different cheeses. Fifth, this dish is gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. Sixth, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great meal prep option. Lastly, it’s quick to make, taking only about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal hot honey chicken pasta recipe.

Ingredients for Hot Honey Chicken Mac

Gather these items:

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup milk
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup hot honey
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and chicken to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined. Drizzle in the hot honey and mix until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Transfer the Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese to a serving dish. Drizzle extra hot honey on top and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Chicken Mac

Keep these in mind:

For a creamier texture, add more heavy cream or milk.
Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Mac

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience.
Top with additional hot honey for an extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat Hot Honey Chicken Mac

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. This dish is a great option for meal prep, as it keeps well and is easy to reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Honey Chicken Mac

What’s the secret to perfect Hot Honey Chicken Mac?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors. Use quality cheese and don’t skimp on the hot honey to achieve that perfect sweet heat. The honey-infused chicken pasta dish becomes even more delightful with fresh herbs as garnish.

Can I make Hot Honey Chicken Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and it will taste just as good. This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a quick hot honey chicken pasta recipe.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot Honey Chicken Mac?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente and don’t rush the cheese melting process; it should be low and slow for a creamy sauce. Additionally, properly season the chicken to avoid blandness in your spicy honey chicken pasta casserole.

Variations of Hot Honey Chicken Mac You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Try using different types of pasta, like penne or rotini, for a fun twist.
For a smoky flavor, incorporate some cooked bacon or sausage.
Experiment with different hot honeys or even make your own blend!

Delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac: 5 Comforting Steps - Hot Honey Chicken Mac - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy chicken pasta recipe or this creamy tomato soup with cheese.

Delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac: 5 Comforting Steps - Hot Honey Chicken Mac - additional detail

For more tips on meal prep, visit this cheesy chicken noodle soup recipe.