Crispy Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese
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Indulge in comfort food bliss with Crispy Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese! This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey glaze with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s a decadent twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika in the third. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Once cooked, remove from the oven and drizzle honey over the top of each chicken breast. Set aside.
4. Prepare the macaroni: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine everything: In the prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce until well combined. Slice the baked honey-drizzled chicken breasts into strips and gently fold them into the macaroni and cheese mixture.
7. Bake the mac and cheese: Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the Crispy Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese hot and enjoy!
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with crispy honey-glazed chicken for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
