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Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

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A quick and indulgent honey pepper chicken served over creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (200g)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200g)
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2% for a lighter sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and about 1 teaspoon of the black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (75°C). Remove chicken and let rest on a plate for 5 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir in the remaining black pepper and red chili flakes if using. Simmer 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over both sides of each breast and let it bubble for about a minute.
  6. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni 8 to 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  7. In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook 1 to 2 minutes to form a light roux.
  8. Slowly whisk in the milk. Cook 3 to 5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens to coat a spoon.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt as needed.
  10. Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until fully coated. Plate the mac and cheese. Slice the honey pepper chicken and arrange over the pasta.

Notes

Add a splash of milk when reheating mac and cheese to maintain creaminess. For dairy-free options, substitute with oat milk and dairy-free cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/honey-pepper-chicken-recipe/