Sweet & Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac
A comforting mac and cheese dish with a zesty twist of sweetness from honey and heat from hot pepper sauce, filled with creamy macaroni, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni Any type of macaroni can be used.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian version.
- 1/4 cup honey Can be substituted with agave syrup for a vegan version.
- 2 tbsp hot pepper sauce Adjust to taste for desired spiciness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Use other oils if preferred.
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced Any colors of bell peppers work.
- 1/2 cup onion, diced Can use shallots for a milder flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by gathering and prepping your ingredients. Dice the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Chop the bell peppers and onion, and set them aside.
Cooking the Macaroni
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Sauté Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Add Vegetables
- After the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the peppers soften.
Mix in Sauces
- Stir in 1/4 cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of hot pepper sauce, mixing until the chicken and vegetables are well coated. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes.
Combine with Macaroni
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute on low heat.
Season and Serve
- Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot with additional hot pepper sauce on the side.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.