Next, I drizzle the honey into the skillet with the chicken and sprinkle the pepper over it. The sweetness of the honey just enhances the flavors of the chicken beautifully. I let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine everything together. As the honey caramelizes, it gives the chicken a beautiful glaze that makes it not only taste good but look mouthwatering too! Once the pasta is done cooking, I drain it and add it into the skillet with the chicken.
Next up is the magic! I pour in the chicken broth and mix everything until it’s well combined. I then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts slowly, enveloping the pasta and chicken in an irresistible creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Stir everything together gently until everything is coated in cheesy goodness. Finally, I garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—using different types of cheese, adjusting the spice levels, and even experimenting with cooking times. I found that sharp cheddar works best because it adds depth to the dish. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the chicken. It really ramps up the flavor and kicks up the warmth!
Also, when you drain the macaroni, do not rinse it! The starch that clings to the pasta helps bind the sauce, creating a creamier texture. I learned this the hard way once—trust me, it makes a world of difference! Lastly, if you want to get adventurous, try adding some sautéed bell peppers or broccoli for added veggies and crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made when I first tried this recipe was to overcook the pasta. Now I make sure to cook it just to al dente, so it retains its texture. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy when combined with the creamy sauce, which isn’t the goal! (See the next page below to continue…)
Another thing to watch out for is not allowing the chicken to attain a nice golden brown on the outside. That caramelization adds flavor that you don’t want to miss out on! If the chicken is steamed instead of sautéed, you may lose out on that delicious depth.
Also, don’t skip the step of letting the honey cook with the chicken. If you add it too late, the flavor won’t permeate the dish, and you’ll miss out on that lovely sweetness that balances the spice. Lastly, remember to season adequately. Tasting through each step can help you understand how to enhance the flavors perfectly!