Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, especially when it’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is the perfect go-to for those busy weeknights when you want a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken breasts coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce and a side of rich, creamy macaroni cheese, this dish is comfort food at its finest. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, reminiscent of cozy family dinners and shared stories.

Growing up in the Midwest, hearty meals like this one were a staple in our household. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors paired with a creamy side dish always felt like a warm hug after a long day. Now, I love bringing that same comfort to my own dinner table, with a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.

INGREDIENTS:

To make this delicious meal, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The base of our dish, perfect for soaking up all the sweet and spicy goodness.

1/4 cup honey: Adds a sweet, sticky glaze to the chicken.

1/4 cup soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with a salty, savory flavor.

1 tablespoon sriracha sauce: Brings the heat—adjust to your spice preference.

1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of bite to the mix.

2 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic depth that ties all the flavors together.

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to switch it up with your favorite pasta shape.

2 tablespoons butter: The start of a deliciously creamy cheese sauce.

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to just the right consistency.

2 cups milk: Makes the sauce rich and smooth.

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show in our macaroni cheese, providing that gooey, cheesy goodness.

Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh note to the finished dish.

DIRECTIONS:

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a meal that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat to 375°F (190°C): Start by preheating your oven. This ensures it’s hot and ready by the time your chicken is prepared.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Pepper Sauce

Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Stir until everything is well blended. This sauce is where all the magic happens, balancing sweet, spicy, and savory notes perfectly.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Coat the chicken: Place the 4 chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the honey pepper sauce over them. Make sure each piece is well coated—this helps the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors as it bakes.

Bake until caramelized: Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has turned into a sticky, caramelized glaze. The chicken should be tender and juicy, with a beautiful golden color.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Boil the pasta: While the chicken is baking, cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. This is your classic mac and cheese base—comforting and oh-so-satisfying.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

Start with a roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook this for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s slightly golden and bubbly. This step helps thicken your sauce without any lumps …