Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with different sauces for chicken. The combination of honey and spice quickly became a favorite in my household. Over the years, I perfected the recipe to balance the flavors perfectly. Now, it’s a staple that I love to share with friends and family."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in American cuisine. His passion for comfort food shines through in every dish. He loves creating recipes that not only taste great but are also easy to prepare.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A bowl of Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac, beautifully garnished with green onions and served with a side salad.

Why This Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac Recipe Works

This Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac recipe is a standout for its balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and spicy sauce coats tender chicken pieces that are perfectly crispy, while the creamy macaroni adds a comforting element. This combination creates a satisfying meal that's both hearty and exciting.

The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet honey, soy sauce, and a kick of red pepper flakes. The pasta provides a creamy backdrop that complements the bold flavors of the chicken. The cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and the macaroni is perfectly al dente.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet, then combine with the macaroni.

You can use chicken thighs or even shrimp as a substitute. Both will work well with the sauce and provide a different flavor profile.

Pan-searing the chicken gives it a nice crispy texture while allowing it to stay juicy inside. Baking is another option, but pan-searing combined with the sauce creates the best flavor.

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, which should be 165°F. Also, basting the chicken with the sauce while it cooks helps retain moisture.

The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, while the macaroni should be tender but not mushy. The cheese should be melted and creamy without being overly thick.

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for extra indulgence.

Yes, consider using whole wheat pasta and baking the chicken instead of frying it. You can also reduce the amount of honey and cheese for a lighter dish.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Chicken is too greasy

Problem: If the chicken ends up greasy, it may be due to excess oil during cooking.

Solution: Make sure to use just enough oil to coat the pan. You can also drain excess oil after frying if necessary.

✅

Macaroni is mushy

Problem: Overcooking the macaroni can lead to a mushy texture.

Solution: Cook the macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the chicken and sauce.

✅

Sauce is too thick

Problem: If the sauce comes out thicker than desired, it can be difficult to mix with the pasta.

Prevention: Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the sauce and stir to thin it out while heating.

✅

Too spicy for some palates

Problem: The dish might be too spicy if many red pepper flakes were added.

Recovery: To balance the heat, consider adding a bit more honey or serving with a side of sour cream or yogurt.

✅

Not enough flavor

Problem: If the dish lacks flavor, it could be due to under-seasoning.

Prevention: Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook. A little salt or additional soy sauce can enhance the overall flavors.

✅

Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a dash of vinegar or lemon juice to cut through the sweetness.

Too Salty: To counteract excessive saltiness, add a little sugar or honey to balance the flavors.

Bland: If the dish is bland, consider adding more spices or herbs, such as black pepper or fresh parsley.

An array of fresh ingredients for Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac laid out on a kitchen counter.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac

Selecting high-quality ingredients elevates this dish significantly. Opt for fresh chicken breast and natural honey to enhance the flavor profile. The type of macaroni used can also make a difference; choose a shape that holds the sauce well.

When preparing the ingredients, ensure that the chicken is patted dry for better browning. Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a creamier texture, and always check expiration dates on pantry items.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Look for chicken breast that is firm and has no discoloration. Fresh chicken will yield the best flavor and texture in this dish.
  • Honey: Choose high-quality honey for the best results. Raw or local honey can add unique flavors and benefits to the dish.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a creamier sauce.
Chef Mitchell skillfully sautéing chicken pieces in a skillet for Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the chicken perfectly is critical for a great final dish. Ensure that the chicken is cooked in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows for even browning and prevents steaming.

Pay attention to the timing; the chicken should be golden brown and cooked through without being dry. Keep an eye on the macaroni, making sure it’s tender but still firm to the bite for the best texture.

The Secret to Perfect Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac

The key to this recipe is balancing the flavors of sweet honey and spicy red pepper flakes while ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked. The sauce should be added at the right moment to coat the chicken and macaroni without making the dish overly saucy.

Spicy Honey Chicken and Mac

Prep 15 min
Cook 30 min
Serves 4-6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    For sautéing and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Adds aromatic depth
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    Enhances savory flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
    Provides heat
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness and glaze
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Adds umami flavor

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating the chicken
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
    Main carb component
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    For creaminess and flavor
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    Adds richness
  • 1/4 cup green onions
    For garnish and freshness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients

    Gather all ingredients and measure them accurately. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better browning.

  2. Cook the Elbow Macaroni

    In a large pot, boil water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. Make the Sauce

    In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.

  4. Heat the Pan for Chicken

    Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait until it shimmers.

  5. Cook the Chicken

    Coat the chicken pieces in flour, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

  6. Add the Sauce

    Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  7. Combine Chicken and Mac

    Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss well to combine.

  8. Finish with Cheese

    Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet before combining with the macaroni.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread also pairs nicely for a comforting dinner.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize by adding different vegetables or using a different type of cheese. Switching to whole wheat pasta can also add a healthier twist.