There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of crispy, sweet, and spicy honey pepper chicken paired with a luscious side of creamy mac and cheese. As the aroma fills my kitchen, I’m transported back to family dinner nights, where laughter mingles with the satisfying sounds of clinking plates and the sizzling chicken hitting the hot oil. It’s the type of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for their share of this delightful combination.
After a hectic week filled with fast food runs, I found myself searching for something more fulfilling and homemade. This sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken not only checked all the boxes for flavor and satisfaction, but it also proved to be surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight. With just about an hour from prep to plating, you can indulge in a generous helping of crispy chicken glazed in a sweet heat, complemented perfectly by warm, cheesy goodness. Trust me, every bite feels like a warm hug! So let’s dive in and bring this comforting classic to your dinner table.
Why is Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken so irresistible?
Comforting and Delicious: This dish delivers a warm, satisfying meal that wraps you in cozy flavors, making it perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Hassle-Free Prep: With a straightforward process, dinner is on the table in just one hour—ideal for busy days when you crave homemade goodness.
Juicy Chicken: The perfectly fried chicken turns out crispy thanks to the careful breading, while the glossy honey glaze brings just the right amount of sweet heat.
Cheesy Indulgence: Paired with creamy mac and cheese, each bite offers a delightful contrast between crispy and creamy textures.
Crowd Pleaser: This dish is bound to impress your loved ones, uniting fans of all ages around the table for an unforgettable family meal!
Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekly menu or rekindle the joy of cooking, this recipe is your go-to for ultimate comfort food, so why not give it a try?
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Ingredients
Prepare for a flavor explosion with these key components!
For the Chicken
- Chicken (1 lb, boneless, skinless breasts or thighs) – Choose thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result, or opt for breasts for a leaner option.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural taste.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – Provides the first layer of breading, helping the egg adhere beautifully.
- Eggs (2 large, beaten) – Serve as a binding agent, ensuring breadcrumbs cling to the chicken.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup) – Creates a deliciously crispy crust, adding satisfying texture.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Perfect for frying, lending a golden finish without any off-flavors.
For the Glaze
- Honey (1/4 cup) – Adds natural sweetness to the glaze and balances the spice beautifully.
- Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Infuses a savory depth into the honey glaze.
- Sriracha Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Provides a bold heat that pairs perfectly with the sweetness. (Substitution: Use your favorite hot sauce for a different kick.)
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional) – For those who crave extra heat in the glaze.
- Butter (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the glaze’s richness and helps blend the ingredients seamlessly.
For the Mac and Cheese
- Elbow Macaroni (8 oz) – The classic pasta choice that holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used to create a roux, forming the base of the cheese sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons) – Thicken the cheese sauce to achieve that creamy consistency.
- Milk (2 cups) – Provides a creamy base that enhances the richness of the sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The star of the mac and cheese, delivering robust flavor.
- Ground Mustard (1/4 teaspoon, optional) – Adds a subtle tang, enhancing the cheese sauce’s depth.
Now, gather these ingredients for your unforgettable Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!
How to Make Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
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Prepare Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station: one plate for flour, another for the beaten eggs, and a third for breadcrumbs to keep things organized.
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Breading: Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, ensuring it’s well-coated. Next, dip it in the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before pressing it into the breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
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Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for about 5–7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Prepare Glaze: In a separate saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and butter. Stir everything together over low heat until melted and well combined. Keep warm for coating the chicken.
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Cook Macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season to taste, then fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring every piece is enveloped in that glorious cheesy sauce.
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Plate and Serve: Serve the creamy mac and cheese alongside the crispy honey pepper chicken, drizzling the warm glaze generously over the chicken. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Thighs for Tenderness: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful experience; they stay moist even after frying.
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Hot Sauce Swap: Replace sriracha with your favorite spicy sauce like sambal oelek or even a sprinkle of cayenne. Adjust the heat to suit your palate!
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Cheesy Boost: Add cream cheese to the mac and cheese for an extra creamy texture, making it irresistibly rich and satisfying.
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Veggie Addition: Toss in some steamed broccoli or peas into the mac and cheese for a burst of color and nutrition that complements the main dish.
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Sweet and Tangy Glaze: Mix in some apple cider vinegar with the honey glaze for a tangy edge that balances the sweetness; it will elevate your dish to a new level!
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Crunchy Topping: For the mac and cheese, top it with panko breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown for added crunch and texture.
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Curry Flavor Up: Add a teaspoon of curry powder to the glaze for an exotic twist that brings a hint of warmth and spice.
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Heat Level Control: If you want to tone down the spice, omit the red pepper flakes and sriracha altogether, letting the honey shine brightly in a milder, sweet glaze.
With these variations, your Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese journey can continue with endless possibilities, creating new favorite memories at your dinner table!
What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese?
Pairing this flavor-packed dish with complementary sides elevates your meal and creates a delightful dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread perfectly soaks up any additional glaze from the chicken, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese and the sweetness of the chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini enhance the meal with vibrant flavors and textures, offering a warm complement to the dish.
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Coleslaw: The cool and crunchy coleslaw provides a delightful contrast to the warm, crispy chicken and creamy mac and cheese, making each bite interesting.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob brings a hint of summer and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy elements of the chicken.
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Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing peach iced tea serves as a perfect drink to cool down the heat of the glaze, offering a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the dish.
Consider these sides to create a truly memorable meal that brings everyone together at the table!
Expert Tips for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
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Even Coating: Ensure chicken pieces are evenly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve maximum crunchiness while frying.
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Oil Temperature: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature, ensuring the chicken turns out crispy and golden brown.
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Perfect Glaze: Stir the honey glaze gently over low heat to prevent burning; this will help you achieve that velvety texture that beautifully coats the chicken.
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Mac and Cheese Consistency: If your mac and cheese thickens when reheating, simply add a splash of milk to restore that creamy goodness.
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Save the Extras: Leftover fried chicken can be reheated in the oven for optimal crispness, making it perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Enjoy an incredible meal with this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prepping! You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the mac and cheese, prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time, keeping them stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, let the mac and cheese cool completely before refrigerating and reheat gently by adding a splash of milk to restore its creaminess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the chicken and combine everything together for a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort in the evening!
Storage Tips for Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring the chicken maintains its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months; this helps preserve their textures.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes for that crispy exterior, and microwave the mac and cheese in short intervals, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Avoid Soggy Coating: If freezing, consider saving the glaze to apply fresh after reheating the chicken for a delightful flavor boost with your sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken!
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, boneless, skinless thighs are a fantastic option for extra juiciness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner choice, boneless, skinless breasts will also work beautifully, providing that crispy crunch you desire.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken cools to room temperature first to maintain its moist texture.
Can I freeze Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken and mac and cheese?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the chicken and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 2 months. This method helps preserve the textures. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. If necessary, double-dip your chicken back into the egg and breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coat!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
For those with allergies, take note that this dish includes common allergens like gluten (from flour and breadcrumbs) and dairy (in the mac and cheese). If preparing for guests with dietary restrictions, consider gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta, or offer a dairy-free cheese alternative for the mac and cheese.
How can I reheat the mac and cheese without losing its creaminess?
To reheat mac and cheese without it becoming too thick, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of milk and stir until creamy again. For the best texture, carefully microwave in short bursts or reheat on low heat, stirring frequently.
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Dredge chicken in flour, coat in egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in skillet and fry chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Combine glaze ingredients in a saucepan and heat until melted.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Make cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk.
- Stir in cheese until melted, then mix in macaroni.
- Serve mac and cheese with the chicken, drizzled with glaze.