Mediterranean Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese
Mediterranean Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a bold yet comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Tender chicken is coated in a glossy honey pepper sauce with just the right balance of sweetness and heat, while red and yellow bell peppers add freshness, color, and natural sweetness. On the side, creamy macaroni cheese delivers rich comfort, making this meal feel indulgent without being overwhelming. With olive oil, herbs, and a clean flavor profile, this recipe fits perfectly into a Mediterranean-inspired kitchen while still delivering classic comfort food appeal. It is ideal for family dinners, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Honey Pepper Chicken
Chicken breast or thighs: 700 g, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Red bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced
Yellow bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced
Honey: ⅓ cup
Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Crushed black pepper: 1½ teaspoons
Chili flakes: ½ to 1 teaspoon, to taste
Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Creamy Macaroni Cheese
Elbow macaroni: 300 g
Butter: 3 tablespoons
All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
Milk: 2½ cups, warm
Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, grated
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
Salt: ¾ teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly golden and almost cooked through.
Add sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the pan and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, black pepper, chili flakes, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to coat the chicken and peppers evenly.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Reduce heat and keep warm.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute.
Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and thick. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and serve alongside or beneath the honey pepper chicken and peppers.
Tips for Best Results
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if desired.
Cut chicken and peppers evenly for uniform cooking.
Keep peppers slightly crisp for better texture and color.
Warm milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps.
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
Taste the honey sauce before thickening and adjust sweetness or heat.
Do not overcook the pasta to keep it creamy.
Simmer the sauce gently to avoid burning the honey.
Let the chicken rest briefly in the sauce before serving.
Finish with fresh herbs for a bright, clean flavor.
Variations
Use hot honey for extra spice.
Add green bell pepper for more color contrast.
Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
Add spinach to the macaroni cheese for freshness.
Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean depth.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Add caramelized onions to the chicken.
Sprinkle smoked chili flakes for a deeper heat.
Serve everything over pasta instead of on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dish very spicy?
It is mildly spicy and easy to adjust.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, keep chicken and pasta separate and reheat gently.
Can I bake the macaroni cheese?
Yes, bake at 180°C for 15 minutes with extra cheese on top.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, just avoid overcooking.
Do the peppers add sweetness?
Yes, they balance the heat beautifully.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
How long do leftovers keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Can I freeze this dish?
The chicken freezes well; pasta is best fresh.
What can I serve with it?
A green salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I reduce the honey?
Yes, adjust to taste.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 740
Carbohydrates: 66 g
Protein: 42 g
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 24 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a complete, satisfying meal that balances bold flavor with comforting textures. The glossy honey pepper sauce, colorful bell peppers, and rich macaroni cheese work together to create a dish that feels special yet approachable. With flexible spice levels and simple preparation, this recipe is easy to adapt and perfect for sharing. Once it hits the table, it is guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.