Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is reminiscent of an embrace, in a bowl. The creamy cheesy pasta blends with crispy chicken. Proposing a harmony of sweetness and spiciness that stimulates a feeling of home. Each spoonful is a journey, complemented by the crunch of bacon bits and a touch of basil on top. Ideal for family dinners or, as an indulgence when needed.
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Servings: 4 people
Ingredients
- 1 16 ounces box spiral noodles
- 1 25 ounces bag breaded chicken strips
- 5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Basil for garnish
Honey Pepper Sauce:
- 3/4 c honey
- 1/4 c light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoon soy sauce low sodium
- 1/4 c pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 2 c heavy cream
- 1/2 c shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 c mozzarella cheese freshly shredded
- 3/4 c colby jack cheese freshly shredded
- 2-3 cloves minced garlic
- Chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by following the instructions, on the package. You have the option to either bake or fry the chicken strips. Once cooked set them aside.
- Next, cook the noodles by boiling them according to the instructions on the package until they're al dente. Then drain them.
- To make the honey pepper sauce combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper and cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Allow it to cool down a bit after simmering.
- In a pan melt butter. Add heavy cream to create a cheese sauce. Gradually stir in parmesan, mozzarella and colby jack cheese after each addition. Add minced garlic and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix everything well together. Don't forget to stir in some bacon for added flavor.
- Take your chicken strips. Dip them into the honey pepper sauce so that they are thoroughly coated.
- Now you can serve your dish! Plate up some of that pasta mixture. Top it off with those flavorful honey pepper chicken strips. Finally garnish, with some basil leaves if desired or even add bacon if you're feeling indulgent.
- Enjoy your mouthwatering Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese!
Notes
If you're a fan of the flavors and comforting goodness of our Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese but follow a gluten-free diet don't worry! Just replace the noodles with your gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of options available that offer a fantastic texture and taste so you won't miss out on anything.. When it comes to the breaded chicken strips go for a version using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to achieve that perfect crispy coating. With this adjustment you can savor every flavorful bite of this timeless comfort food without any worries, about gluten.