Name: Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or tenders; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt to taste; 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper (for breading); Vegetable oil for frying; 2 tbsp butter (for glaze); 1/4 cup honey; 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper (for glaze); 3 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce); 1.5 cups heavy cream or whole milk; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for cheese sauce); 1/2 tsp onion powder (for cheese sauce); 1/4 cup reserved pasta water; Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food, and nothing hits the spot quite like a rich, creamy bowl of mac and cheese. But I wanted something a little extra—something with crunch, sweetness, spice, and that creamy, cheesy goodness all in one bite. That’s how I landed on this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s a dish that checks every box: crispy chicken bites drizzled in a sticky-sweet honey pepper glaze, nestled on top of the dreamiest, silkiest mac and cheese you’ve ever had.

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What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms a classic childhood favorite into something truly special. It’s indulgent, yes—but still balanced, thanks to the kick from cracked pepper and the sweetness from the honey. The textures are incredible too: golden, crunchy chicken meets luscious cheese sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping potluck dish, this one always disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish isn’t just mac and cheese with toppings—it’s a full flavor experience. The crispy chicken offers satisfying crunch and savory depth, while the honey pepper glaze brings a complex, crave-worthy contrast. The cheese sauce? It’s thick, creamy, and loaded with real cheddar for that homemade feel.

You’ll love this recipe because:

It’s a comfort food lover’s dream.
You get sweet, spicy, crispy, creamy—all in one bowl.
It’s family-friendly but fancy enough for guests.
You can easily prep parts ahead of time.
It makes amazing leftovers (if there are any!).

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, I always reach for boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins. They’re easy to cube, bread, and fry or bake, and they soak up the glaze beautifully. Chicken thighs work just as well if you want a juicier bite with more flavor—they’re a bit more forgiving and stay tender even after crisping. If you’re in a pinch, frozen popcorn chicken or chicken nuggets make a great shortcut too—just crisp them up before tossing with the honey pepper sauce.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily adjust based on what you have or your dietary needs:

Chicken: Swap for plant-based nuggets for a vegetarian twist, or try crispy tofu for a protein-packed alternative.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shell pasta, cavatappi, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a must, but feel free to blend in mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy note.
Cream: Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even unsweetened oat milk for a lighter option.
Gluten-Free: Choose GF pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal for the chicken coating.

This recipe is all about layering flavor and texture—so as long as you keep that balance, substitutions work wonderfully.

Ingredients for This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Elbow Macaroni
This is the base of the dish—classic, comforting, and perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce in every bite.

Chicken Breast or Tenders
Lean and easy to cut into bite-sized pieces, chicken breast or tenderloins are ideal for getting that crispy coating and juicy interior.

Buttermilk
Used to marinate the chicken before breading, buttermilk tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick better.

All-Purpose Flour & Cornstarch
This combo creates a light, extra-crispy coating when frying the chicken.

Eggs
Acts as a binder to help the coating adhere to the chicken before cooking.

Breadcrumbs or Panko
For that irresistible golden crunch on the outside of each chicken piece.

Honey
The sweetness in the honey pepper glaze—it balances the spice and enhances the savory chicken.

Cracked Black Pepper
Provides the “pepper” punch in the glaze; freshly cracked is best for bold flavor.

Butter
Used in both the cheese sauce and the glaze—it adds rich depth and that velvety mouthfeel.

Heavy Cream or Whole Milk
Forms the creamy base of the cheese sauce, making it thick, smooth, and luxurious.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Melts into the cream to create a classic, bold cheesy flavor in the sauce.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder
Add savory depth to both the cheese sauce and chicken seasoning.

Salt
Enhances all the flavors across the pasta, chicken, and glaze.

Parsley or Chives (Optional)
A sprinkle of green at the end adds a touch of freshness and color.

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, combine the pieces with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and garlic powder. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for maximum tenderness).

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another, mix flour, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and a touch of black pepper. Dip each marinated chicken piece into the egg, then dredge it in the dry mix, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy—about 4–5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. For a lighter option, bake or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Macaroni

While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in garlic powder and onion powder. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in shredded cheddar a handful at a time until smooth and creamy. Add pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 6: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt butter, stir in honey, and add plenty of cracked black pepper (adjust to taste). Simmer gently for a minute, then remove from heat.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

Toss cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pile into bowls, top with crispy chicken, then drizzle generously with the honey pepper glaze. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

The total time from start to finish is around 45–55 minutes, depending on your cooking method:

Marinating the chicken: 30 minutes (can be done ahead)
Cooking pasta: 8–10 minutes
Frying or baking chicken: 15–20 minutes
Making cheese sauce and glaze: 10 minutes
Assembling: 5 minutes

If you prep the chicken and cheese sauce ahead, you can cut down on cooking time significantly for a quick weeknight meal.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente, so it holds up when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty.
Balance the glaze: Start with a tablespoon of cracked pepper and adjust to your taste—it should be bold, not overpowering.
Fry chicken in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of crisp.
Reserve pasta water: A splash can help loosen the cheese sauce if it thickens too much.
Warm the glaze gently: Overheating honey can burn it—keep it on low heat.
Assemble just before serving: That way, the chicken stays crispy on top.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the marinade: Don’t rush this step—it tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. Even 20–30 minutes makes a difference.
Using cold cheese in the sauce: Let cheese come to room temperature before adding. Cold cheese can cause clumping.
Overcooking the chicken: Especially if frying—watch for golden brown, not dark brown. Overcooked chicken turns dry and tough.
Using too much flour in the sauce: This can make the cheese sauce taste pasty. Stick with butter and cream for smoothness.
Neglecting seasoning: Every layer—from chicken to pasta to sauce—needs proper seasoning. Taste as you go.
Drowning the dish in glaze: A drizzle is enough. Too much, and it overwhelms the cheese flavor.
Letting the pasta sit too long: Once cooked and drained, toss it with the sauce right away to avoid sticking.

What to Serve With Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

The sharpness of a simple balsamic or lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.

Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

A little char and bitterness balances the creamy, cheesy base.

Garlic Bread

To soak up every last bit of cheese and glaze—because no one wants to leave sauce behind.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

That briny crunch is a surprising but incredible pairing with the honey glaze.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh, cool, and juicy—a great way to lighten up your plate.

Extra Chicken on the Side

Double the chicken if you’re serving a crowd—they’ll fight for the crispy bites.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

The sweetness and spice from the glaze go great with a cold, citrusy drink.

Sliced Apples or Pears

Sweet and fresh, they contrast beautifully with the cheesy, savory pasta.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese are just as delicious the next day—if not better. Here’s how to keep everything fresh:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken separate from the pasta if possible to maintain its crispiness.
Freezer: The cheese sauce can separate when frozen, so freezing is not recommended for the entire dish. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and plain cooked pasta separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm pasta gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Reheat chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — about 1.5 cups)

Calories: 710
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 155mg
Sodium: 760mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 11g

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on substitutions and portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar is my go-to because it gives bold, classic flavor. You can mix in gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or extra melt.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta, cheese sauce, and even the chicken ahead. Store them separately, then reheat and assemble just before serving so the chicken stays crispy.

What’s the best way to make the chicken extra crispy?

Use a mix of flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs. Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, and let the chicken rest on a wire rack—not paper towels—to keep it crunchy.

Can I use store-bought chicken or nuggets?

Absolutely. Crispy frozen chicken strips, popcorn chicken, or nuggets are a great shortcut. Just heat them up and toss in the honey pepper glaze.

How spicy is the honey pepper glaze?

It has a gentle heat from the cracked black pepper, but it’s mostly sweet and mellow. You can always add red pepper flakes if you want more kick.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes—especially if you go light on the black pepper. Kids love the cheesy pasta and crispy chicken. You can always serve the glaze on the side if they prefer it plain.

Can I use gluten-free pasta and flour?

Yes! This recipe works well with gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend for breading. Just make sure your breadcrumbs are GF too.

What can I do if my cheese sauce gets too thick?

Add a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water and stir over low heat until it smooths out again. Avoid reheating it on high—it can curdle.

Conclusion

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese takes everything you love about comfort food and dials it up. Between the crispy chicken, gooey cheddar sauce, and sticky-sweet glaze, this dish is the definition of indulgence done right. It’s cozy, bold, satisfying, and totally customizable—from weeknight dinners to special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this one-pot masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a meal that hits every craving.