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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce infused with the sweetness of honey and a zesty kick from black pepper. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. 2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from skillet, cover to keep warm.
  3. 3. Add Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. 4. Create the Sauce: Lower heat to medium-low; stir in heavy cream, honey, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
  5. 5. Combine Everything: Return sliced chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta and shredded cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.
  6. 6. Serve & Enjoy: Dish out into bowls or plates; garnish as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk for creaminess.