Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on two classics in one bowl. Creamy, cheesy macaroni mingles with crispy, tender chicken pieces, all drizzled with a sweet and spicy layer of hot honey that gives it a nice little kick. It’s the kind of comfort food that mixes gooey cheese with a surprising pop of heat and sweetness you didn’t know you needed but won’t stop craving.
I love making this dish when I want to treat myself without turning on a million pots. The hot honey is my secret move—it adds just enough zing to keep each bite exciting but not too spicy. When I make it, I like to toast a few breadcrumbs on top to add a little crunch, which makes every forkful a little adventure in texture.
This meal is perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with friends who can handle a bit of spice. I often serve it with a simple green salad to balance out all that cheesy goodness. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! It’s a delicious mix of comfort and excitement, all in one bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken works well for quick cooking and slicing. You can swap for thighs if you prefer juicier meat—they stay tender and add flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste while mozzarella adds creaminess. If you want a different twist, try Monterey Jack or Colby for smooth melting.
Hot Honey: The star for sweet heat! If you don’t have hot honey, mix regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a drizzle of sriracha mixed with honey.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic but cavatappi adds fun twists with its spiral shape. Penne or shells work too if that’s what you have.
How Do I Make a Smooth, Lump-Free Cheese Sauce?
Making cheese sauce can be tricky if lumps form. Here’s how to get it right:
- Whisk butter and flour over medium heat to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Slowly add warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Keep whisking as the sauce thickens—this usually takes 4-5 mins.
- Lower the heat before adding cheese to stop it from clumping.
- Add cheese in small handfuls, stirring until smooth before the next addition.
Patience here pays off with silky cheese sauce that coats pasta beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta until al dente, I like it because it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook the seasoned chicken; a heavy skillet helps get a nice sear.
- Saucepan – for making the cheese sauce; I prefer a wide one so I can stir easily.
- Whisk – to blend the milk and flour smoothly without lumps, making the sauce silky.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep everything accurate, especially for spices and liquids.
- Serving bowls – to dish out the hot mac and cheese, I like shallow ones for the best presentation.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the chicken for crispy bacon or turkey strips for a different protein option that adds smoky flavor.
- Mix in some cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
- Use different cheeses such as Pepper Jack or Gruyère to try new flavor profiles in the sauce.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or Chipotle powder for a smoky heat if you like things spicier.
Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Finishing Touches:
- 3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade with chili flakes)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 20-25 minutes of cooking, including pasta boiling, chicken cooking, and making the cheese sauce. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 to 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat well. Divide the cheesy pasta into serving bowls and top with the sliced chicken. Drizzle hot honey generously over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish. Serve immediately while warm!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy mac with crispy, smoky chicken and a sweet, spicy drizzle of hot honey—a comforting and exciting meal all in one bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight or in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture while searing.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier or Milder?
For more heat, add extra cayenne pepper to the chicken rub or drizzle more hot honey. To tone it down, reduce or omit the cayenne and use a mild honey instead of spicy hot honey.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add hot honey just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the cheese sauce smooth.