Ingredients
Scale
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- â…“ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Dredge chicken in the flour mixture and shake off excess.
- Fry chicken until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Honey Pepper Glaze: Combine honey, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Toss crispy chicken in the glaze to coat evenly.
- Cook the Mac and Cheese Sauce: Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
- Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish: Mix cooked macaroni into cheese sauce, spoon into serving bowls, top with honey pepper glazed chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Soaking chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.
- For extra creaminess, use full-fat dairy products.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Frying
- Cuisine: American