Oh, let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the warm, cheesy embrace of macaroni and cheese! It’s the ultimate comfort food that just makes everything feel right in the world. But then, I thought, what if I could kick it up a notch? That’s when I decided to add a spicy twist, and trust me, this hot honey chicken mac n cheese has become a family favorite ever since! The sweet heat from the hot honey melds perfectly with the creamy, cheesy goodness, creating a dish that’s not just comforting but also exciting!
Every time I make this, it takes me back to cozy nights spent in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors. I remember the first time I added hot honey to my chicken—it was a revelation! The way it caramelizes and adds that delightful kick just elevates the whole meal. So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish to impress your friends, this hot honey chicken mac n cheese is where it’s at. You’ll want to dive right in, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious hot honey chicken mac n cheese. Trust me, it’s all about quality and balance!
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (I love sharp cheddar for that extra zing!)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted, so you can control the saltiness)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the cheese sauce)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste!)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs (tender and juicy, just how I like it)
- 1/4 cup hot honey (this is the star of the show, so don’t skimp on it!)
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking—this will make the process super smooth and enjoyable!
How to Prepare Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese
Alright, let’s get cooking! This hot honey chicken mac n cheese is a breeze to make, and I promise you’ll love every step of the way. Just follow my lead, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Cooking the Macaroni
First things first, let’s cook that macaroni! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key for flavor. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions. I usually go for about 7-8 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. You don’t want it too soft since it’ll cook a bit more when mixed with the cheese sauce. Once it’s done, drain the macaroni and set it aside—just look at that beautiful pasta!
Making the Cheese Sauce
Now, let’s dive into the creamy cheese sauce that makes this dish sing! In a medium saucepan, melt your 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir it all together until it forms a smooth paste—this is called a roux, and it’ll help thicken your sauce.
Next, slowly pour in the 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously. You want to avoid any lumps, so take your time! Keep cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens to a velvety consistency—about 3-5 minutes. Now, here comes the best part: add in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese! Stir until it’s completely melted and oh-so-creamy. Wow, the smell is divine!
Preparing the Chicken
While your cheese sauce is coming together, let’s focus on that juicy chicken! In a separate pan, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add your 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs, cooking them until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes per side. I love getting a nice sear for extra flavor! Once they’re done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. Now, toss that warm chicken with 1/4 cup of hot honey. The way it glazes the chicken is just heavenly!
Combining the Ingredients
It’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the luscious cheese sauce, and the hot honey chicken. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is evenly coated and mixed. If you want to get fancy, you can add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Serve it warm, and get ready for a flavor explosion! Trust me, this hot honey chicken mac n cheese is the dish you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a comforting classic with a spicy twist that’ll keep you coming back for more!
- Quick preparation—ready in just about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- The creamy cheese sauce combined with sweet and spicy hot honey chicken is a flavor match made in heaven.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Everyone loves mac n cheese, and the addition of hot honey chicken takes it to the next level.
- Customizable! You can easily adapt the recipe with different cheeses or proteins to suit your taste.
- Leftovers (if there are any) taste just as good the next day—perfect for meal prep!
- It’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, here are some of my top tips to make sure your hot honey chicken mac n cheese turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, start with less hot honey and add to taste. You can always drizzle more on top before serving!
- Cheese Variations: Don’t feel like you have to stick to just cheddar! I love mixing in some Monterey Jack or even a bit of pepper jack for an extra kick. Get creative!
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a little crunch, consider topping your mac n cheese with some seasoned breadcrumbs before serving. Just pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until golden brown—delicious!
- Cook Chicken Right: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. This helps it get that lovely golden sear and keeps it juicy!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers (lucky you!), add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that creamy texture. It’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to throw in some sautéed veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to sneak in some extra nutrition—plus, they add great color!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best hot honey chicken mac n cheese ever! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this hot honey chicken mac n cheese is how versatile it can be! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp or even crispy bacon for a salty twist. You could also use a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option!
- Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley to brighten up the flavors. Toss them in right before serving for a fresh burst!
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with a mix of cheeses! Try a combination of mozzarella for stretchiness and gouda for smokiness. Oh, and a little blue cheese can add a delicious tang!
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for an extra kick!
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers. Not only do they add color, but they also amp up the nutrition!
- Crunchy Toppings: Instead of breadcrumbs, try crushed tortilla chips or fried onions on top for a fun crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mac.
- Sweet and Savory: For a unique twist, drizzle a little maple syrup or add caramelized onions to complement the hot honey—it’s an unexpected delight!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect hot honey chicken mac n cheese masterpiece. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking so much fun!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this amazing hot honey chicken mac n cheese, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Let’s talk about how to store and reheat it, so you can enjoy it just as much the next day!
First off, once your mac n cheese has cooled down a bit, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to keep that creamy goodness from drying out. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just think—leftover comfort food waiting for you!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend popping it in the microwave for quick and easy enjoyment. Just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy—trust me, this little trick works wonders! Heat it up in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. You want that cheese sauce to be gooey and delightful again!
If you’re feeling fancy and want to bring back that lovely texture, consider reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the mac n cheese to a baking dish, and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, adding a few extra minutes uncovered at the end if you want a little crusty top. YUM!
Before you dig in, give it a taste. You can always adjust the flavors with a bit more hot honey or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and remember, this dish is just as delicious the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s break down the nutritional information for this delicious hot honey chicken mac n cheese! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But here’s a general idea of what you’re getting in each serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, making it a hearty option for a main meal. Just remember to balance it out with some veggies on the side if you’re looking to add a bit more nutrition! Enjoy every cheesy bite, and savor the deliciousness!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While I love using cheddar for that classic flavor, you can mix it up with mozzarella for extra creaminess or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the perfect combination!
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
No problem! You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with some sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies. You could also add chickpeas for extra protein. Just toss them in with the hot honey for a delicious flavor!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare it ahead! Just make the mac n cheese, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy. Perfect for meal prep!
What should I serve with hot honey chicken mac n cheese?
This dish is a meal on its own, but if you want to add some sides, I recommend a simple green salad or some roasted veggies. They’ll balance out the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the hot honey chicken mac n cheese! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It’s a great way to save some for later!
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Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese: A Simple Comforting Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious blend of creamy macaroni and cheese with spicy hot honey chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup hot honey
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Slowly add milk while stirring. Cook until thickened.
- Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- In another pan, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Toss cooked chicken with hot honey.
- Combine macaroni and cheese with honey chicken. Stir well.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot honey to taste.
- Use a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: hot honey chicken mac n cheese
