When the winter chill hits, you want something cozy and filling. This Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese is exactly what your family needs tonight. It is the ultimate bowl of comfort that actually makes you feel good.

You get all the cheesy goodness you crave with a spicy twist. It is fast enough for a Tuesday but tastes like a weekend treat. Your kids will love the cheese, and you will love the protein boost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish feels like a cheat meal but fits your goals perfectly. It delivers 35g of protein to keep your family full and happy. It is a nutritious reset that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor at all.

The hot honey adds a trendy, sweet heat that everyone is talking about. You only need one pot and one skillet to make it happen. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you are short on time.

Simple Method

Making this recipe is very straightforward and beginner-friendly. You simply boil your pasta while you brown the seasoned chicken. The cheese sauce comes together quickly in a small pan.

Even if you are new to cooking, you can master this sauce. The Greek yogurt makes it thick and creamy without using heavy cream. Just toss everything together and you are ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are likely already sitting in your kitchen pantry. We use protein-rich staples to keep this meal balanced and healthy.

8 oz chickpea or protein-fortified elbow pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
1.5 cups shredded low-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup skim milk
2 tbsp hot honey
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tsp olive oil

Step-by-Step

Cook the protein pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the cubed chicken breast with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Reduce skillet heat to low. Add 1 tablespoon of hot honey to the chicken, tossing to coat thoroughly, then remove chicken from the pan.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the skim milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Remove the cheese sauce from heat and whisk in the Greek yogurt and cayenne pepper until fully incorporated.
Combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce in the large pot used for the pasta.
Stir over low heat for 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Divide into four portions and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of hot honey over the servings before providing final seasoning.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this Hot Honey Chicken Mac N Cheese warm in big bowls. You can add a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. It balances the richness of the cheese and the honey heat.

For a fun family dinner, set out extra honey for drizzling. It makes the meal feel special and interactive for the kids. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this cozy bowl of goodness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three or four days. This makes it a fantastic option for your weekly meal prep.

To reheat, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Warm it in the microwave for about two minutes. You can also reheat it on the stove over low heat.

Recipe Tips

Don’t skip the Greek yogurt for that extra protein boost.
Use a non-stick skillet to keep the chicken from sticking.
Whisk the cheese sauce constantly so it stays perfectly smooth.
Add a handful of fresh spinach at the end for greens.
Double the recipe if you are feeding a large crowd.
Swap the chicken for turkey breast if you prefer that flavor.
Garnish with green onions for a fresh, bright crunch.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap hot honey for regular honey and extra black pepper.
Use gluten-free chickpea pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Add roasted red peppers for a smoky, sweet vegetable addition.
Try pepper jack cheese if you want even more spice.

Common Questions

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild kick from the honey and cayenne. You can easily reduce the cayenne if you prefer it milder. The creamy cheese helps balance the heat perfectly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great recipe for meal prep. Just store it properly and add milk when reheating. The flavors actually get better the next day.

I hope this cozy recipe brightens your winter evenings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!

— Lidia