If you’re craving a soul-satisfying comfort dish with a dazzling twist, look no further than this Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese. It brings together tender, spice-kissed chicken glazed with sweet and spicy hot honey, nestled atop creamy, cheesy macaroni that’s baked to bubbly perfection. Every forkful promises a thrilling harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become your new go-to whenever you want familiar comfort with an exciting kick.

Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and deliver exactly what makes Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese so unforgettable. Each component plays its part: creamy cheeses add richness, perfectly cooked macaroni provides the ideal bite, and the chicken brings savory depth, all elevated by that irresistible hot honey drizzle.

2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for roux): Creates the perfect base for the creamy cheese sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the right creamy consistency.
2 cups whole milk: Adds richness and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides sharp, zingy flavor and gooey texture.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds meltiness and a mild creaminess to balance sharp cheddar.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives the chicken a gentle savory warmth.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and color to the chicken.
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender protein that complements the creamy mac n cheese perfectly.
1 tablespoon oil or butter (for frying): Ensures the chicken crisps up nicely without sticking.
1/3 cup hot honey (or to taste): The star ingredient, providing that sweet heat that takes this dish to the next level.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbaceous garnish to brighten every bite.

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s just al dente—this ensures the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t turn mushy during baking. Once done, drain it thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly, cooking for about one minute to form a roux. This step is essential to get that perfectly smooth, creamy base. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency. Then, stir in your sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, creating a rich, flavorful cheese sauce that will coat every macaroni piece.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs liberally with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat your oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sizzle. Fry the chicken thighs for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. The seasoning will create a crust that’s bursting with flavor while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken with Hot Honey

While the chicken is still warm, generously brush or spoon on the hot honey. This step is magical—the honey’s sweetness contrasts with its subtle heat, perfectly complementing the savory chicken and creamy mac and cheese below.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesy macaroni into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Nestle the hot honey glazed chicken thighs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the mac and cheese is bubbling and the top is lightly golden. This final bake melds all the flavors and textures into an irresistibly cohesive dish.

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also sprinkle on a little extra paprika for color or even some crispy fried onions for texture contrast. These simple touches make your plate look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Since Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is pretty rich and hearty, pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides works wonders. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon, or even roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides balance the creaminess and heat in the main dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this at a casual dinner party, try dishing it up in individual ramekins and topping each with a small piece of glazed chicken. Alternatively, shred the chicken for a layered casserole style that’s easy to serve family-style. Either way, presenting the Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese with a thoughtful touch elevates the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken may firm up a bit, but reheating gently helps bring back the luscious gooeyness of the mac and cheese.

Freezing

You can freeze the entire dish before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe container. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, uncovered, so the top crisps again. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I use if I don’t have hot honey?

If you don’t have hot honey on hand, you can mix regular honey with a bit of chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to mimic that sweet-spicy kick. Adjust the heat level to your preference!

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Also, be sure your pasta is gluten-free to keep the entire dish safe for gluten sensitivities.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

Definitely! Stirring in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach before baking adds some extra color, nutrients, and texture. Just be mindful not to overload it, so the creamy cheesy balance remains.

How spicy is the Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese?

The heat level depends on the hot honey you choose. Most hot honeys have a gentle spicy warmth balanced by sweetness, but you can customize honey amounts for milder or bolder heat according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. It’s a brilliant blend of classic comfort food and exciting flavors that will bring smiles to any meal. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your home, perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing friends with something a bit unexpected yet totally delicious.