Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

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Golden, crispy chicken tenders glazed with sticky hot honey sauce nestled on a bed of creamy, velvety macaroni and cheese—this dish is comfort food with a fiery twist. The balance of spicy-sweet heat and ultra-rich cheese sauce creates a flavor combination that is both familiar and thrilling. Every bite brings crunch, creaminess, and just the right zing.

Whether you’re making this for a hearty weeknight dinner or a soul-warming indulgence on a cozy weekend, this Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese hits the spot. It’s a flavor-packed upgrade from the classic mac and cheese, and with just a few extra steps, you’ll transform an everyday meal into a crave-worthy comfort dish.

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What Makes Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese So Addictive?

The secret is in the balance. The sharpness of the cheese cuts through the sweetness of the honey, while the chili heat in the glaze keeps your taste buds engaged. Using seasoned, crispy chicken as the topping adds both texture and depth, making this dish far more than just a side of mac.

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Ingredients for the Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Elbow Macaroni – The base of the dish, these small pasta tubes are perfect for soaking up cheese sauce.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers bold, tangy flavor and creamy meltability.

Whole Milk + Heavy Cream – This combo creates a smooth, rich base for the cheese sauce.

Butter + Flour – Classic roux ingredients for thickening the sauce to perfection.

Seasoned Fried Chicken Tenders – Crispy and flavorful, they make the dish hearty and protein-packed.

Hot Honey Sauce – A mix of honey, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for a spicy-sweet glaze that clings to the chicken.

Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a touch of freshness and color to finish it off.

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How To Make the Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5-6 minutes.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully melted and the sauce is silky. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and stir to coat in the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Stir and warm until the sauce is fluid and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders

If using pre-cooked or frozen chicken tenders, bake or air-fry according to package directions until golden and crisp. For homemade: dredge chicken in seasoned flour, dip in egg wash, and fry until golden brown and cooked through. Let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Assemble and Glaze

Slice or leave chicken tenders whole and lay them over the cheesy mac. Drizzle generously with the hot honey sauce. For extra heat, serve with additional sauce on the side.

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Serving and Storing Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese

Serve this dish hot and fresh, straight from the stovetop. It makes a standout main course all on its own, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a full meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat and a pop of color.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of milk to restore the creaminess. While the chicken may lose its initial crunch, the flavor deepens as it rests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! Shells, cavatappi, or rotini work great—just be sure they hold sauce well.

Is the hot honey sauce too spicy?

It’s got a kick, but it’s balanced by the honey. You can adjust the heat level by using more or less cayenne or hot sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the mac and cheese and sauce in advance. Reheat gently and add the chicken and hot honey just before serving.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Crispy tofu, shrimp, or even breaded pork cutlets make fun variations. Just be sure to match cooking times.

Can I bake it like a casserole?

Absolutely. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with chicken and sauce, and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until bubbly.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and dairy-free butter for the roux. Just note the flavor and texture will vary.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese, you might also enjoy these bold, flavor-packed favorites:

• Creamy Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for a cozy, earthy dinner with rich depth.

• Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini for steakhouse vibes at home.

• Tender Beef Bao Buns if you’re in the mood for something fun and hands-on.

• Teriyaki Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Veggies for a sweet-savory twist on classic comfort.

• Garlic Butter Beef Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce for a pasta night worth repeating.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime you crave comfort with a kick.

And drop a comment to let me know how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the hot honey or keep it mild? Maybe you added bacon or swapped in smoked gouda?

I always love hearing how these recipes inspire your own kitchen creativity. Ask questions or share your tips—we’re in this delicious journey together!

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