A bold and cozy comfort food classic, Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is the perfect dish for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. This recipe features creamy, cheesy macaroni topped with crispy chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich cheese sauce paired with the sweet and spicy hot honey creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, offering a warm and hearty meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level of the hot honey or add extra toppings to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown chicken on top of bubbling mac n cheese makes it visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Baking dish
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly; a larger pot helps prevent sticking.
- Skillet: Perfect for frying chicken, allowing even heat distribution for a crispy texture.
- Saucepan: Necessary for making the cheese sauce, ensuring smooth mixing of ingredients.
- Baking dish: Ideal for combining all elements and baking them to perfection.
Ingredients
For this delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, you will need:
For the Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for roux)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For Glazing
- 1/3 cup hot honey (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you’re finished preparing the mac n cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth.
- Cook until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Fold in cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken thighs for about 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown.
Step 6: Glaze with Hot Honey
Brush or spoon hot honey over the cooked chicken while still warm.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish. Place glazed chicken on top. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until bubbling and lightly golden.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot!
This Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese balances rich flavors with comforting textures—perfect for any meal! Enjoy!
How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Serving Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and making it a memorable meal. Here are some creative ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.
Individual Bowls
- Serve each portion in a small bowl, topped with a drizzle of extra hot honey for an eye-catching presentation.
Family Style
- Place the mac and cheese in a large serving dish with the glazed chicken thighs on top. This encourages guests to help themselves and adds a communal feel to the meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish individual servings with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
Side of Greens
- Pair with a simple side salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
Bread Basket
- Serve alongside warm breadsticks or garlic knots for an extra indulgent experience that complements the creamy dish.
How to Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Achieving the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to elevate your dish even further.
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and creaminess in your cheese sauce.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape when mixed with the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and spices; they enhance the overall taste of the dish significantly.
Let It Rest: Allowing your mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Adjust Heat Level: Feel free to modify the amount of hot honey based on your preferred spice level. Start small, then add more if needed.
Experiment with Toppings: Add crispy breadcrumbs or additional herbs as toppings before baking for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Complementing your Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese with delightful side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic and olive oil provide a healthy crunch.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing adds brightness to your plate.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears bring a smoky flavor that pairs well with the savory chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, creating an enjoyable contrast.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that complements hearty dishes perfectly.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer additional protein while enhancing the comfort food vibe of this meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a nutritious option that’s colorful and satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the cheese sauce thickening: If you don’t cook the milk long enough, the sauce will be runny. Ensure it thickens before adding the cheeses.
- Overcooking the macaroni: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain texture when combined with the sauce.
- Not seasoning properly: Underseasoning can lead to bland mac and cheese. Taste your cheese sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese doesn’t melt well, affecting flavor and creaminess. Always opt for high-quality sharp cheddar and mozzarella.
- Frying chicken at too low a temperature: Low heat results in greasy chicken. Ensure your oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior without burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Separate chicken from mac and cheese if possible for better texture when reheated.
Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese.
What is Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a creamy pasta dish topped with crispy chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey. It’s a delicious comfort food that balances flavors perfectly.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer! Elbow macaroni is traditional, but cavatappi or penne works well too.
How can I customize my Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?
You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, change up the cheeses, or use different spices to suit your taste!
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using whole grain pasta, low-fat dairy options, and baking instead of frying the chicken.
What should I serve with Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. You could also consider garlic bread as an option!
Final Thoughts
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience blending creamy cheesiness with spicy sweetness. The recipe allows room for customization based on personal preferences. Try experimenting with different cheeses or add-ins like veggies—this dish is versatile enough for any occasion!
Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, a dish that combines creamy macaroni with crispy chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. This delightful recipe is perfect for weeknight family dinners or special gatherings, making it an instant favorite at any table. The rich cheese sauce envelops each piece of pasta, while the added kick from the hot honey elevates this classic comfort food to new heights. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, you can adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that promises satisfaction with every bite!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter for frying
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/3 cup hot honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute before gradually adding milk until smooth. Cook until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted; season with salt and pepper.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Brush hot honey over the cooked chicken while warm.
- Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish, place glazed chicken on top, and bake for 10–12 minutes until bubbling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider topping with crispy breadcrumbs before baking. Customize by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the mac and cheese. Adjust the heat level of the hot honey based on personal preference.
