Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make meal featuring spicy honey pepper glazed chicken breasts baked to perfection, paired with creamy, cheesy homemade macaroni and cheese. This comforting dish balances a sweet and spicy chicken with a rich, creamy pasta side, perfect for a satisfying dinner in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Mac and Cheese
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Prepare Honey Pepper Sauce: In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper thoroughly to create a tangy, sweet, and spicy glaze.
- Coat and Bake Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts generously with the honey pepper sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. Place the chicken on a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Cook Macaroni: While the chicken bakes, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot.
- Make Creamy Mac and Cheese: Add butter, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to the hot macaroni. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth, coating all the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Plate the baked honey pepper chicken alongside a generous serving of creamy macaroni and cheese. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal while hot.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking.
- Adjust hot sauce quantity to control the spiciness level.
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor or mild cheddar for a creamier taste.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes after baking to keep juices locked in.
- For a richer mac and cheese, substitute milk with half-and-half or cream.
