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–+ servings
Delicious Honey Pepper Chicken served with cheesy macaroni, a perfect dinner duo.

Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

This dish combines sticky, spicy-roasted chicken thighs with a classic cheddar mac and cheese, balancing heat and comfort for a perfect weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs with skin
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes Adjust to taste for spice level
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Use freshly grated for best results
  • 1 cup milk Use whole milk for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Whisk honey, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt in a bowl to create the glaze.
  3. Brush or toss the chicken thighs in the glaze until evenly coated. Arrange skin-side up on a baking sheet.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Bake the chicken for approximately 30 to 35 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
Cooking Mac and Cheese
  1. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the flour, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then add garlic powder, onion powder, and cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and glossy.
  4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until fully coated.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10g

Notes

Serve chicken thighs alongside mac and cheese, allowing diners to mix the glaze into the pasta. Add lemon wedges for an extra zest.

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