Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and a sweet-spicy honey drizzle come together for a cozy, flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup hot honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Step 3: Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook the flour and spices.
- Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring often.
- Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely.
- Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken to the cheese sauce. Mix well until combined.
- Step 7: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle evenly with hot honey on top.
- Step 8: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked cheddar or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for a richer flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Swap cooked chicken for crispy bacon or sausage for a different meat option.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of hot honey or drizzle it just before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep the dish creamy, add a splash of milk when reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Is hot honey difficult to find or can I make my own?
Hot honey is available at many grocery stores, but you can easily make your own by gently warming honey with crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
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Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Creamy cheddar cheese sauce, tender shredded chicken, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni are baked together to bubbly perfection and finished with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey for an irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Protein
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Finish
- 1/4 cup hot honey
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the water and set the pasta aside for later use.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook the flour and activate the spices without browning.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated and combined.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the top with the hot honey, allowing for a sweet and spicy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 minutes or until the dish is bubbly and hot throughout.
Notes
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of hot honey according to your spice and sweetness preference.
- For a more indulgent dish, you can add a breadcrumb topping before baking.
- Ensure the milk is added gradually to avoid lumps in your cheese sauce.
- The paprika adds subtle smokiness; feel free to substitute with smoked paprika for more intense flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese, spicy honey sauce, chicken recipes
