Description

This comforting and indulgent dish brings together tender, sticky honey-glazed chicken with a creamy, cheesy macaroni base. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory makes it an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sweet & Spicy Honey Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for heat level)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet & Spicy Honey Chicken

1️⃣ Coat the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2️⃣ Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and smoked paprika. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4️⃣ Glaze the chicken: Return the fried chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is glossy and fully cooked. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Macaroni and Cheese

5️⃣ Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6️⃣ Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden and bubbly.
7️⃣ Add milk: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
8️⃣ Add cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Add Dijon mustard (if using), then season with salt and pepper.
9️⃣ Combine with pasta: Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

🔟 Plate it up: Spoon the creamy macaroni and cheese onto a plate or into a bowl. Top with a generous portion of sweet and spicy honey chicken.
1️⃣1️⃣ Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

Balancing heat and sweetness: Adjust the sriracha and honey to your taste for the perfect sweet-spicy balance.
Make it ahead: Prepare the chicken and macaroni separately, then combine just before serving to maintain freshness.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the macaroni if needed.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4