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If you're searching for a dish that tantalizes your taste buds with a beautiful dance of sweet and spicy flavors, look no further than Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken. This dish marries the natural sweetness of honey with the fiery kick of sriracha, resulting in a chicken recipe that is as vibrant as it is delicious. Paired with a side of creamy macaroni cheese, this meal is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with an explosion of flavor.

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese - Naomi's Recipes

Savor the flavors of this Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with velvety Creamy Macaroni Cheese! This easy recipe starts with marinated chicken breasts that are seared and baked to perfection, drizzled with a delightful honey-pepper sauce. Complement it with rich and cheesy macaroni for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for family dinners, this dish is sure to impress. Get the full recipe and enjoy a delicious weeknight delight!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese:

8 ounces elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.

      - Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

        Cook the Macaroni:

          - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

            - In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until bubbly.

              - Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.

                - Lower the heat and add in the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the drained macaroni and stir until well combined. If desired, pour into a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden.

                  Cook the Chicken:

                    - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

                      - Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserving the marinade) and sear the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

                        - Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

                          Finalize and Serve:

                            - Once the chicken and macaroni cheese are done, remove them from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

                              - Serve the sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken alongside a generous portion of creamy macaroni cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro and parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy!

                                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 4