Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

A bold and cozy comfort food classic, Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is the perfect dish for any occasion. This creamy, cheesy macaroni is topped with crispy chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey. Ideal for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe balances rich indulgence with a kick of heat, making it a standout meal that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella with the sweet heat of hot honey creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
• Comforting & Satisfying: A hearty meal that warms you from the inside out—ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

To make Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying chicken thighs to achieve that golden-brown crust while keeping the meat juicy.
• Whisk: A must-have for creating a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For this delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese recipe, gather the following ingredients:

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 Topping

• 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 assembling your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes.
• Drain the macaroni and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
• Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until thickened, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add Cheeses

Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Fold in cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Prepare Chicken Thighs

Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for added flavor.

Step 7: Fry Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 8: Glaze with Hot Honey

Brush or spoon hot honey over the cooked chicken while it’s still warm for the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 9: Assemble Dish

Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish. Place glazed chicken thighs on top.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until bubbling and lightly golden on top.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese!

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor together. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, serving it right can enhance the overall experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread is a perfect side to soak up any extra cheese sauce, adding a crunchy texture to your meal.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious contrast to the creamy pasta, balancing flavors and colors on the plate.

Include Pickled Vegetables

• Tangy pickled vegetables add an exciting zing that cuts through the richness of the dish and refreshes the palate.

Serve with Coleslaw

• A crunchy coleslaw can introduce a refreshing crunch, making each bite of mac and cheese even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

To ensure your Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar and mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents mushy macaroni when baking, keeping that delightful bite in every forkful.
• Season properly: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate the flavors of both the cheese sauce and chicken.
• Add spices wisely: Experiment with different spices like cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra kick if desired.
• Adjust hot honey sweetness: Start with less hot honey and gradually add more to find your perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes after baking helps everything settle, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Enhance your meal by pairing Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese with these delicious side dishes:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with mac and cheese.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a pop of freshness; try grilling it for added smoky notes.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the savory elements of the dish.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons gives a nice crunch alongside creamy mac and cheese.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice bring additional nutrition and flavor variety to your meal.
6. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are not only tasty but also add a fun texture contrast next to creamy mac n cheese.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides refreshing sweetness that balances out savory dishes.
8. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are always a hit, creating an indulgent feast when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese can be a delightful experience, but avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your dish shines.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking macaroni too long can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package instructions and cook until just al dente.
• Not seasoning the cheese sauce: A bland cheese sauce can ruin the flavor. Always season with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder and paprika for depth.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese doesn’t melt well and can affect the creaminess. Opt for sharp cheddar and mozzarella for optimal results.
• Skipping the hot honey glaze: The glaze adds essential flavor and balances the dish. Don’t skip this step; brush it generously over the chicken.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow mac and cheese to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to freeze without the hot honey glaze, adding it fresh when reheating.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1–2 minutes), stirring occasionally until fully heated. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan. Stir frequently and add milk as needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese that may help you perfect your dish.

What is Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a creamy macaroni dish topped with crispy chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey, offering a unique flavor combination.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute other pasta shapes like shells or penne according to your preference.

How do I make it spicier?

To increase the heat, consider adding more hot honey or incorporating red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein options.

How long does Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy a meal that warms both heart and soul!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is a deliciously creamy comfort food that elevates the classic macaroni and cheese with a twist. Featuring tender, crispy chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. With its rich combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, every bite delivers a satisfying warmth complemented by just the right amount of heat. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins, this mac n cheese is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it fresh from the oven for an indulgent meal that brings everyone together around the table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente (about 6-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for about a minute. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Fry chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Brush hot honey over warm chicken thighs for a flavorful glaze.
9. Combine mac and cheese in a baking dish, place chicken on top, and bake for 10–12 minutes until bubbling.
10. Garnish with parsley if desired before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 115mg