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Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

A comforting one-pot dish that combines creamy cheeses, sweet honey, and savory chicken for a delightful family meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 3 cups milk (whole for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons honey (choose a local variety for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 3 cups cooked macaroni (elbow or pasta of your choice)
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers (mix of colors for a vibrant dish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously until smooth, then cook for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  4. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
  5. Add in the honey, black pepper, and salt; taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Fold in the cooked chicken, macaroni, and bell peppers, stirring until well-coated.
  7. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 3-5 minutes or until heated through and the peppers are tender.

Notes

For a healthier version, use whole grain pasta or a gluten-free alternative. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.