Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

This Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is pure comfort for chilly nights or anytime you crave big flavors in one skillet. Velvety cheese sauce hugs every noodle, while pan-crisped chicken gets a sweet spicy glaze just before baking. The contrasting textures and punchy kick of heat always make this a showstopper at my table.

The first time I made this I was skeptical the flavors would work but the sticky heat from the honey transformed the dish. Now I put it on the table for birthday dinners and cold Sunday suppers and there are never any leftovers.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: brings the classic mac shape and soaks up the cheese
• Unsalted butter: ensures control over the salt level
• All-purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce just right
• Whole milk: creates a rich smooth foundation for the cheese
• Sharp cheddar cheese: delivers the best tang and sharpness
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for a stringy gooey finish
• Salt and black pepper: let you easily taste and adjust
• Garlic powder: adds punch to the chicken without fuss
• Paprika: gives a nice warmth and color that pops
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: stay juicy and cook quickly
• Oil or butter for frying: helps crisp the chicken edges
• Hot honey: brings both sweetness and a fiery kick
• Fresh parsley: adds a fresh finish and color

• Look for fresh cheese blocks to shred at home for creamiest sauce and always pick chicken thighs that are plump and pink for juiciness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Macaroni:

Boil a large pot of salted water and add the elbow macaroni Cook until barely al dente so the noodles keep their bite in the final bake Drain and set aside while you make the sauce

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan melt the butter over medium heat When foamy whisk in the flour and let it bubble for a minute until it smells toasty Gradually add the milk whisking constantly for a silky base Let it simmer gently and thicken to coat a spoon

Add the Cheese:

Lower the heat and toss in shredded cheddar and mozzarella Stir until you have a completely smooth glossy sauce Taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper as needed

Combine the Macaroni and Sauce:

Tip the drained pasta into the cheese sauce Gently fold to coat every piece evenly This step is my trick for extra creamy mac no dry bits here

Season and Cook the Chicken:

Pat the chicken thighs dry Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder paprika salt and pepper Preheat a skillet with oil or butter over medium-high heat Lay in the thighs and cook for four to five minutes on each side until deeply golden with crispy patches

Glaze with Hot Honey:

While the chicken is still warm brush or spoon the hot honey over it so that it soaks into every nook This step is essential for sticky glossy chicken with addictive flavor

Assemble for Baking:

Spoon your cheesy pasta into a baking dish nestle the glazed chicken pieces on top in a single layer

Bake Until Bubbly:

Slide the whole thing into a hot oven and bake for ten to twelve minutes Look for bubbling edges and lightly golden cheese

Finish and Serve:

If using scatter parsley over everything Carry the dish straight to the table and serve while it is piping hot

Save

Nothing beats the richness of sharp cheddar for me It reminds me of early family dinners when my mom let me grate cheese for her Famous story in my house my little brother once licked the cheese grater because he could not wait for mac n cheese night

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers and store in an airtight container in the fridge It will stay tasty for up to three days For reheating add a splash of milk before microwaving or use the oven covered with foil to protect the cheesy top Freezing is possible but best done before baking for freshest flavor and texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda if you like smoky notes Gluten-free elbows and flour make this easily gluten-free Use rotisserie chicken in a pinch and drizzle the hot honey over at the end Vegetarians can use crispy breaded cauliflower steak in place of the chicken

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands alone but a crunchy green salad or simple roasted broccoli brightens the richness For tailgates or potluck parties serve in smaller ramekins as a main or hearty side

How Mac And Cheese Meets Hot Honey

Classic American macaroni and cheese goes all the way back to colonial times but hot honey is a modern trend Popularized by pizza lovers and chefs it now adds a complex sweet heat to savory dishes I first tasted it at a food truck festival and knew it needed a place at home

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but keep an eye on cook time to prevent dryness. Thighs stay juicier when pan-fried.

→ Is homemade hot honey necessary?

Bottled hot honey is convenient, but you can make your own by gently warming honey with your favorite chili flakes for a spicy kick.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Assemble the macaroni and cheese with chicken up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What cheeses can I substitute?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to swap in gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby for unique flavor twists.

→ How spicy will the dish be?

The level of heat depends on your hot honey. Start with less and adjust to taste, especially if serving children or spice-sensitive guests.

→ How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and glaze, or try crispy fried tofu with hot honey as a satisfying meatless topping.