– 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Creating Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps for an incredible meal:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and flour, whisking until smooth. Gradually add milk to the mixture, then stir in honey. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
5. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pasta mixture, stirring continuously until melted and creamy.
6. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the mac and cheese simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor before serving.
These concise steps will guide you through the process, making it enjoyable and accessible for even novice cooks.