Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Introduction

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that balances the heat of spices with the sweetness of honey, creating a flavorful meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. This dish pairs perfectly with creamy macaroni cheese, making it a great option for a comforting dinner that is sure to please the entire family.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
• For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook each breast for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Prepare the Glaze: In the same skillet, add the remaining marinade and simmer until it reduces into a thick glaze. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it evenly with the glaze.

Preparing the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

1. Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

Conclusion

Serve the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken hot, alongside a generous portion of creamy macaroni cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy a meal that brings together the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful choice for a comforting family dinner.

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