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–+ servings
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken: A Family Favorite Delight

Experience the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken recipe.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Honey Pepper Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitute with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can replace with vegetable oil if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Honey Swap with maple syrup for a unique twist.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Tamari works as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Substitute with rice vinegar for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to suit your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use fresh minced garlic as a substitute for an even fresher taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Consider fresh onion for a bolder flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cayenne Pepper Adjust to control the spiciness or omit for a milder version.
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese
  • 8 ounces Macaroni Pasta Any small pasta shape like shells or penne works too.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be substituted easily.
  • 2 cups Milk Feel free to use any variety or plant-based milk.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Try Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste experience.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and let rest.
  2. In the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for a minute. Gradually pour in milk, whisking until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
  6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve macaroni on a plate, topped with honey pepper chicken and drizzle extra sauce over it. Garnish with parsley and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best texture, store creamy macaroni cheese separately. Add steamed veggies for enhanced nutrition.

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