Description
This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese is a flavorful and comforting meal combining tender baked chicken thighs marinated in a honey and pepper blend with a creamy, cheesy macaroni side. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1 large bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Macaroni and Cheese
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine honey, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and chopped bell pepper. Toss the chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet or dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine and serve: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve the creamy macaroni and cheese alongside the baked sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) enhances the flavor.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with your favorite cheese for the macaroni and cheese.
- For a crispier chicken skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover macaroni and cheese can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sweet and spicy chicken, honey pepper chicken, macaroni and cheese, baked chicken recipe, comfort food, family dinner
