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In the world of comfort food, few dishes hold a place as beloved as mac and cheese. This classic staple has been a favorite for generations, often evoking memories of cozy family dinners and childhood nostalgia. However, what if we told you that you could elevate this beloved dish to gourmet status? Enter the Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight—a dish that marries the heartiness of traditional mac and cheese with a unique twist of sweet honey and a peppery kick.

Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight! This comforting dish combines tender shredded chicken, elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all brought together with a hint of sweetness from honey and a kick of black pepper. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor!

Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons honey

3 cups heavy cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté Chicken & Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Chicken & Seasonings: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Season with black pepper, honey, and paprika. Stir well to combine, letting the honey caramelize slightly for about 2 minutes.

        Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to thicken.

          Add Cheeses: Gradually stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses have completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy sauce, mixing it until all the pasta is well-coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper if needed.

              Serve: Spoon the creamy honey pepper chicken mac and cheese into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of honey if desired.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4