Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese (Print Version)

Velvety cheese sauce coats pasta, then topped with golden-hot honey chicken for a bold, cozy finish.

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 teaspoon paprika
10 - 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
11 - 1 tablespoon oil or butter
12 - 1/3 cup hot honey
13 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
04 - Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
05 - Fold in cooked macaroni until evenly coated in cheese sauce.
06 - Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
07 - Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden.
08 - Brush or spoon hot honey over the cooked chicken while still warm.
09 - Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish. Place glazed chicken on top.
10 - Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until bubbling and lightly golden.
11 - Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.