Description
Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish topped with crispy chicken and a sweet & spicy honey pepper sauce. This restaurant-style favorite is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz box spiral noodles
- 1 25 oz bag breaded chicken strips
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Honey Pepper Sauce:
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 3 Tbs low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 Tbs vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2-3 cloves minced garlic
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken strips according to package instructions until crispy.
- Prepare honey pepper sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Prepare cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack until smooth and creamy.
- Toss cooked pasta with cheese sauce. Fold in cooked chicken and crumbled bacon.
- Drizzle honey pepper sauce over the top and garnish with chopped basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust honey pepper sauce to taste for more or less sweetness/spice.
- Use fresh shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.
- Can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American