Hot Honey Chicken Mac n Cheese: 7 Reasons to Indulge

septembre 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: hot honey chicken mac n cheese! It’s this creamy, dreamy twist on classic mac and cheese that’s just bursting with flavor. Imagine the gooey cheddar cheese melting into perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and then, bam! You hit it with this sweet and spicy hot honey that takes it to a whole new level. I first whipped this up on a whim one evening, and I was instantly hooked! The combination of the tender chicken, the warmth from the honey, and that cheesy goodness is just irresistible. Trust me, whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this is it! You won’t believe how easy it is to make either. Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort like no other!

hot honey chicken mac n cheese - detail 1

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a quick and easy one-pot dish that comes together in just about 35 minutes!
The creamy cheese sauce combined with the spicy kick of hot honey creates a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy get-togethers—everyone will be asking for seconds!
It’s so adaptable; you can easily tweak the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot honey.
Using shredded chicken makes it a great way to use up leftovers or rotisserie chicken.
This dish is gluten-free, so it’s perfect for gatherings where you want to please a crowd!
Trust me, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for an amazing lunch the next day.

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering hot honey chicken mac n cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese. Cooked to al dente perfection, it holds onto that creamy sauce just right!
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for maximum flavor and convenience. You’ll want it nice and tender!
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s sharp cheddar for that rich, melty goodness.
1 cup milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
1/2 cup hot honey: This is where the magic happens! Adjust to your taste for that perfect sweet heat.
1/4 cup butter: Unsalted is ideal here, letting you control the seasoning of your dish.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This will help thicken your cheese sauce, giving it that luscious texture we all crave.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: A little extra flavor boost that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth to the sauce without overwhelming it.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Don’t skip this step!

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking—trust me, it makes the process so much smoother!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious hot honey chicken mac n cheese! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the end result is totally worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a creamy, spicy bowl of goodness in no time!

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, grab your elbow macaroni! Cook it according to the package instructions—usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes to reach that perfect al dente texture. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. This will be the base for our cheesy goodness!

Making the Cheese Sauce

Now, let’s make that dreamy cheese sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. You’ll want it to be nice and bubbly, but don’t let it brown! Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. This helps create that thick, creamy base. Next, gradually whisk in the milk, and keep stirring until it starts to thicken up—this usually takes around 3-5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and luscious! Now, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is melted and combined. Oh boy, the smell is already incredible!

Combining Ingredients

Alright, we’re almost there! Take your shredded chicken and the hot honey, and mix them right into the cheese sauce. Make sure it’s all well combined because this is where the magic happens! Finally, gently fold in the cooked macaroni until every piece is coated in that cheesy, spicy goodness. If you want to go the extra mile, you can drizzle a bit more hot honey on top for an added kick. Serve it warm, and get ready for compliments!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this yummy hot honey chicken mac n cheese, here are some pro tips to ensure you nail it every time! It’s those little details that make all the difference, trust me!

Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure you cook your elbow macaroni just until al dente. If you overcook it, it can turn mushy when you mix it with the cheese sauce. You want that perfect bite!
Adjust the heat: The beauty of this dish is that you can customize the level of spice. Start with a little hot honey, and taste as you go. You can always add more if you like it spicy!
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate your own cheddar for that super creamy texture.
Mix in extras: If you want to elevate the dish, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed jalapeños for an extra flavor kick!
Consider baking for a crispy top: If you love that crunchy topping, transfer your mac n cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle some extra cheese on top, and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Leftover love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering this delicious dish! Happy cooking!

Variations

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about some fun variations for your hot honey chicken mac n cheese! I love experimenting with different flavors, and trust me, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to make this dish truly your own:

Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for a creamy gouda, pepper jack for extra spice, or even a tangy blue cheese for a bold twist. Mixing two types of cheese can create a deliciously complex flavor!
Kick it Up a Notch: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to take that heat to the next level. It’s a great way to satisfy those who love a fiery kick!
Bacon Bliss: Add crispy cooked bacon bits for that smoky, savory touch. The combination of the hot honey and bacon is simply divine—trust me, you won’t regret it!
Veggie Power: Mix in some sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even roasted broccoli for a pop of color and extra nutrition. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some greens!
Buffalo Style: For a spicy twist, mix in some buffalo sauce along with the hot honey. It’s perfect for those who love that classic buffalo flavor and can be paired with celery sticks on the side!
Italian Flair: Incorporate Italian seasonings, like oregano and basil, and swap the hot honey for a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It gives the dish a whole new vibe!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative! Each variation brings its own unique flavor profile, making this hot honey chicken mac n cheese a dish you can enjoy over and over, with a new twist every time!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about storing those delicious leftovers of hot honey chicken mac n cheese! If you’re lucky enough to have any left after dinner, you’ll want to keep them in tip-top shape for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:

Storing: Allow the mac n cheese to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep that creamy goodness intact! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, go ahead and freeze it! Scoop the cooled mac n cheese into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion. It’ll keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Now, let’s get to reheating—because we all know it’s hard to resist a second helping!

Reheating on the Stovetop: This is my favorite method to keep the creaminess alive! Just add a splash of milk to the mac n cheese in a saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until it warms through, and the sauce becomes creamy again. It’s like magic!
Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, this is a quick option. Place your serving in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through and creamy.
Oven Method: For those who enjoy a crispy top, transfer the mac n cheese to an oven-safe dish, add a little extra cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. This way, you’ll get that lovely crust you crave!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your hot honey chicken mac n cheese at its best, time and time again. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for a serving of my hot honey chicken mac n cheese. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and quantities you use, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect:

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 30g

These numbers can help you gauge the richness of this dish, but remember, it’s all about balance! Enjoying a comforting bowl of hot honey chicken mac n cheese every now and then is totally worth it. Happy indulging!

FAQ Section

Got questions about this delectable hot honey chicken mac n cheese? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered (and my answers, of course):

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time, then just combine them when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!

How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re a heat lover, consider adding extra hot honey! You could also toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability!

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can swap it for any pasta you have on hand. Penne or shells work wonderfully too, so feel free to get creative!

What if I don’t have hot honey?
No hot honey? No problem! You can make your own by mixing regular honey with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. It’s a quick fix that’ll still give you that sweet heat!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the chicken and consider adding sautéed veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based cheese and milk to keep it creamy and delicious!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep that creamy texture!

Can I freeze hot honey chicken mac n cheese?
For sure! Just make sure it’s cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll last about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat!

What’s the best way to reheat it?
My favorite way is on the stovetop! Just add a splash of milk and gently heat it over low until creamy. But if you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, too—just remember to add a little milk and heat in intervals.

Hope these answers help! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this hot honey chicken mac n cheese!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.