Description
Creamy Four Cheese Mac and Cheese with Honey Pepper Chicken is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines rich cheeses with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy honey sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the sauce. Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, feta, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Brush the honey mixture over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the creamy mac and cheese on plates, topped with sliced honey pepper chicken.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the mac and cheese or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg