Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on a classic comfort food. It blends creamy, cheesy macaroni with crispy chicken that’s coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. The mix of gooey cheese and that touch of heat from the honey makes each bite exciting and satisfying.
I love making this when I want something cozy but with a little kick. The hot honey glaze is simple to make, and it really wakes up the dish without being too spicy. I often find myself adding a bit extra sauce on top because I just can’t get enough of that sweet and spicy flavor combined with the crunchy chicken and melty cheese.
This dish is perfect for casual dinners or sharing with friends because it’s both comforting and a bit unexpected. I like serving it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out all the richness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug and a little adventure all in one bowl.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni or cavatappi works great here because their shapes hold cheese sauce well. If you prefer gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and strong flavor, while mozzarella keeps it creamy and gooey. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or Colby if you like.
Chicken: Bite-sized chicken breast pieces cook quickly and stay juicy. For a different texture, try chicken thighs or even crispy fried chicken for extra crunch.
Hot Honey: This is key to the sweet and spicy balance. If you can’t find hot honey, just mix regular honey with chili flakes or a little hot sauce for a similar kick.
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Smooth and Creamy Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is easy if you follow these steps:
- Start with a roux: cook butter and flour together for 1-2 minutes. This cooks out the floury taste and helps thicken.
- Add milk slowly while whisking constantly, so lumps don’t form.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens before adding cheese.
- Add shredded cheese off the heat to avoid clumping and stir until melted.
Using shredded cheese (not pre-sliced) helps it melt faster and smoother. Also, avoid boiling the sauce once cheese is added.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use this for boiling pasta because it gives plenty of space and makes it easy to stir.
- Medium saucepan – perfect for making the cheese sauce without spilling.
- Whisk – helps mix the milk and flour smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Skillet or frying pan – ideal for cooking the chicken until crispy and browned.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients, especially hot honey and spices.
- Cooking tongs or spoon – for tossing chicken with hot honey and serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon bits or pancetta for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or jalapeños for added color and texture.
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or pepperoni slices for a spicy twist.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, on top for a burst of freshness.
Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade by mixing honey with a dash of hot chili flakes or hot sauce)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and chicken, and about 10-15 minutes making the cheese sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick and cozy meal you can enjoy any night!
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 package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a smooth roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Cook and Glaze the Chicken:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a little smoked paprika if you like. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drizzle hot honey over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. For a spicier kick, sprinkle chili flakes while tossing.
4. Combine and Serve:
Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring until every noodle is coated and creamy. Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and top with the hot honey chicken pieces. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary and serve right away. Enjoy the warm, sweet, spicy, and cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the sealed chicken in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat the mac and cheese gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave before combining.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken tender. Stir occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese?
This dish pairs well with a light green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted broccoli to balance its richness. For a heartier meal, add some crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.