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Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Recipe

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac Recipe
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A quick and easy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac recipe combining tender chicken breast, sweet honey, and a spicy kick of black pepper with creamy macaroni pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that’s rich in flavor and minimal in cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Dairy

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Produce & Aromatics

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pantry & Staples

  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus extra to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup macaroni pasta (small elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure flavorful bites.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic and Honey: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant, then drizzle the honey over the chicken allowing it to coat and caramelize slightly, enhancing the sweet flavor.
  4. Cook the Macaroni: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the macaroni pasta directly to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is tender and the liquid reduces to a creamy consistency.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Pepper: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional ground black pepper to taste, adding richness and a peppery punch.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly ground black pepper enhance the flavor dramatically.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook macaroni until just al dente as it will continue to soften in the sauce.
  • Honey Balance: Adjust honey quantity depending on your preferred sweetness or spice level.
  • Stir Often: Prevent the macaroni from sticking and ensure even cooking by stirring frequently.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to meld flavors beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Pepper Chicken, Macaroni, One-Pan Dinner, Quick Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/honey-pepper-chicken-mac-recipe/