Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit spicy. It combines tender chunks of chicken with rich mac and cheese, then finishes it off with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey. The mix of creamy pasta and the zing from the hot honey makes this dish stand out on any dinner table.
I love making this recipe when I want something cozy but with a kick. The spice and sweetness of the hot honey really add a cool layer to the traditional mac and cheese flavor, and it’s so easy to adjust the heat depending on your taste. I usually like to use crispy chicken pieces because they add a nice crunch, but the softer chicken works great too if you want something more tender.
Serving this dish fresh out of the oven with a side of simple greens or a light salad balances it perfectly. It’s also great for family dinners or when friends come over because it’s filling, flavorful, and a little different from the usual. I always look forward to that first bite where the spicy and sweet blend together — it’s like a little party in your mouth every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese. You can also use cavatappi or shells if you want more sauce to hug the pasta.
Chicken Breast: I like chicken breast for lean protein, but thighs work well if you prefer juicier meat. Leftover cooked chicken is a great shortcut.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives that signature tang, mozzarella adds meltiness, and Parmesan boosts flavor. Feel free to swap mozzarella with Monterey Jack or even Gouda.
Milk & Butter: Whole milk gives richness, but you can use 2% for a lighter version. Butter is key for making a smooth roux; olive oil or vegan butter works for dairy-free options.
Hot Honey: This is the star for the sweet-spicy combo. You can buy it or make your own by mixing honey with chili flakes or hot sauce.
How Do You Make a Smooth, Lumpy-Free Cheese Sauce?
Making cheese sauce smooth is all about the roux and careful whisking. Here’s how I do it:
- Melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste (this is your roux).
- Slowly add warm milk while constantly whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook until it thickens and bubbles gently — this can take 5-7 minutes.
- Lower heat and add cheeses gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season to taste. Adding cheese off-heat helps avoid grainy texture.
Patience here makes a big difference. Take your time whisking, and you’ll get silky sauce every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta until al dente, which keeps it nice and firm.
- Skillet or frying pan – to sear the chicken until golden and cooked through.
- Medium saucepan – for making the cheese sauce, ensuring even heat and easy stirring.
- Whisk – helps blend the roux and smooth out the cheese sauce without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Serving spoon or spatula – for mixing everything together and plating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese Swap: Use Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to boost the heat, perfect for spice lovers.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.
- Extra Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon for texture on top before serving.
Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk (warmed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, 15 minutes for cooking the chicken and macaroni, and 10 minutes to make the cheese sauce and combine everything. Overall, plan for about 35 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken in the skillet, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, whisking often, until thickened and bubbly (about 5-7 minutes). Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
5. Serve and Add Hot Honey:
Spoon the cheesy macaroni into bowls or plates. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top. Drizzle the hot honey over everything to add that perfect spicy-sweet finish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and dive into this delightful blend of creamy mac and cheese with spicy, sweet chicken. It’s comfort food with a fun twist!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
Can I Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed, and drizzle fresh hot honey before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Hot Honey?
If you don’t have hot honey, mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for a quick homemade version. Adjust the spiciness to your liking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently and stir occasionally to keep the cheese sauce creamy. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.