Amazing Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken 2 Ways

14 de August de 2025

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Creamy honey pepper chicken has become my absolute go-to for a comforting weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was aiming for something that tasted like a restaurant favorite, and I stumbled upon this incredible combination. The crispy chicken coated in that sweet and savory glaze, nestled on a bed of the creamiest, dreamiest mac and cheese – it’s pure bliss! This isn’t just any chicken dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. I’ve found that using a touch of honey garlic pepper chicken in the sauce adds an amazing depth of flavor that you’ll adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

You’re going to adore this creamy honey pepper chicken for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: It’s the perfect balance of sweet honey, savory chicken, and a peppery kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of prep, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Family-Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting and delicious meal.

Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an economical choice for a satisfying meal.
Versatile: It’s a fantastic honey pepper chicken dinner option that feels special but is easy enough for any night.
Satisfying Comfort: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy mac and cheese is pure comfort food joy.

Easy to Adapt: You can easily adjust the spice level or ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
Another Great Honey Pepper Chicken Dinner: This dish is so good, it will quickly become a regular in your honey pepper chicken dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious creamy honey pepper chicken:

1 pound elbow macaroni – cook until al dente, then toss with a little oil to keep it from sticking.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – for that classic, tangy cheese flavor.

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – adds a wonderful creamy, melty texture.
4 tablespoons butter – the base for our luscious cheese sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken the sauce and create a smooth consistency.

3 cups whole milk – makes the sauce rich and creamy, perfect for coating the pasta.
Salt, to taste – enhances all the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste – a key component for that signature honey pepper flavor.

1/2 cup buttermilk – gives the chicken a tenderizing bath before breading.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for an extra crispy coating on the chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory depth to the chicken coating.

1/2 teaspoon paprika – for a touch of color and mild flavor.
Vegetable oil, for frying – enough to cover the bottom of your skillet for crispy chicken.
1/2 cup honey – the sweet element that balances the pepper.

1/4 cup freshly ground black pepper – this is crucial for that distinctive peppery bite, making it a true honey chicken with black pepper dish.

How to Make Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Let’s get this deliciousness on your table! Follow these simple steps to create the best creamy honey pepper chicken.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get the pasta going. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it well and toss with a tiny bit of oil to prevent any sticking. Set it aside for later.

Step 2: Time to get the chicken ready for its crispy coating. Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, combine your flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and a good pinch of pepper. In the second bowl, pour the buttermilk. In the third, place your panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Now, bread that chicken! Dip each bite-sized piece of chicken into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure every piece is well-coated for maximum crunch.
Step 4: Get ready for some crispy perfection! Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4–5 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Remove them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 5: Let’s make that irresistible cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring, until it thickens nicely.
Step 6: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they’re completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. This is where the magic starts to happen for our creamy chicken with honey and pepper dish!
Step 7: Add the cooked macaroni to the glorious cheese sauce and give it a good stir until every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 8: Now for that signature glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and the 1/4 cup of freshly ground black pepper. This combination is key to that distinctive peppery flavor.
Step 9: Add your perfectly fried chicken pieces to the honey pepper glaze and toss gently until each piece is beautifully coated. You’ll love the aroma as the sweet honey meets the spicy pepper!
Step 10: It’s time to serve! Spoon the creamy macaroni and cheese onto plates and top generously with the glazed creamy honey pepper chicken. Enjoy every bite of this amazing creamy chicken with honey and pepper.

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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Want to make your creamy honey pepper chicken absolutely unforgettable? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up:

Don’t skip the buttermilk soak for the chicken; it tenderizes it beautifully.

For an extra crispy coating, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken.
Taste and adjust seasoning for both the cheese sauce and the glaze before serving.
Using freshly ground black pepper makes a huge difference in the glaze’s flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy honey pepper chicken?

The secret to truly perfect creamy honey pepper chicken lies in the contrast: super crispy, golden-fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, served over ultra-creamy, cheesy pasta. Getting that crunch right is key!

Can I make creamy honey pepper chicken ahead of time?

You can prep components ahead! Cook the mac and cheese and store it separately in the fridge. Fry the chicken and make the glaze just before serving for the best texture and temperature.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy honey pepper chicken?

Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying chicken, as this lowers the oil temperature and leads to greasy, soggy pieces. Also, don’t overcook the macaroni; it should have a slight bite as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

This incredible creamy honey pepper chicken is a showstopper on its own, but serving it makes it even better! It’s fantastic spooned over a generous portion of creamy macaroni and cheese, as the recipe suggests. For a complete meal, I love pairing it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or broccoli also make a lovely, fresh addition. If you’re looking for a hearty pasta dish, this honey pepper chicken and pasta combination is pure comfort perfection.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this delightful creamy honey pepper chicken dish:

Calories: 850

Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Protein: 40g

Carbohydrates: 70g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 15g

Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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How to Store and Reheat Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! Properly storing and reheating your creamy honey pepper chicken ensures you can enjoy it again. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer any leftover creamy macaroni and cheese with the chicken on top into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Revisiting this dish is easy, making it a great option for a quick honey pepper chicken recipe later in the week.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for the mac and cheese is on the stovetop or in the microwave. For the mac and cheese, gently warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. The chicken can be reheated separately in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or quickly in the microwave. This helps maintain the chicken’s crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

What exactly is creamy honey pepper chicken?

Creamy honey pepper chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, coated in a sweet honey glaze with a noticeable peppery kick, served over a rich, creamy, and cheesy macaroni and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food experience, offering a delightful contrast between the succulent chicken and the indulgent pasta.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They tend to be more forgiving and stay incredibly moist, which is great if you’re worried about the chicken drying out. Just adjust the frying time slightly as they might take a minute or two longer than breasts to cook through.

How spicy is this creamy honey pepper chicken?

The spiciness really comes from the amount of black pepper you use in the glaze. The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of freshly ground black pepper, which gives it a pleasant, warming peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the honey. If you prefer it milder, start with less pepper and add more to taste. For a truly spicy honey pepper chicken, you could even add a pinch of red pepper flakes!

What are some other side dishes that go well with this dish?

While the mac and cheese is a star, this dish also pairs wonderfully with simple, refreshing sides. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the richness. Steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also provide a fresh element. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread.

Variations of Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic creamy honey pepper chicken, there are so many fun ways to switch things up! For a delightful twist, try making a sweet and spicy honey chicken by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey glaze. If you’re looking for a quicker meal, consider a one-pan honey pepper chicken by stir-frying the chicken and then tossing it with the glaze and pre-cooked pasta. For a lighter option, you could serve the honey pepper chicken over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of mac and cheese. Another fantastic variation is a honey chili pepper chicken, which uses a bit of chili paste for a different kind of heat.