Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 743 reviews
  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese is a deliciously balanced meal combining tender, honey-marinated chicken thighs with a creamy, cheesy macaroni side. The chicken is infused with a sweet heat from pure honey and cayenne pepper, complemented by the fresh crunch of bell peppers. Served alongside a rich cheddar macaroni and cheese, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings.

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 (adjust 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 milk preferred)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix the honey, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and chopped bell pepper until well combined. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  2. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  5. Combine and Serve: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated. Serve the creamy macaroni and cheese alongside the baked sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken thighs for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese taste.
  • Butter and flour quantities for the cheese sauce can be adjusted for thicker or thinner sauce.
  • Leftover chicken and macaroni can be refrigerated and reheated within 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Honey Pepper Chicken, Sweet and Spicy Chicken, Baked Chicken Thighs, Macaroni and Cheese, Comfort Food, Weeknight Dinner

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://marinamontclair.com/sweet-and-spicy-honey-pepper-chicken-with-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/