Why Make This Recipe
Making Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese at home means you can enjoy this delicious dish without going out to eat. It combines savory chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful honey pepper glaze, all in one satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
How to Make Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts, about 1.5 lbs, room temperature)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced finely)
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (coarse grind preferred)
- Salt to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray as needed
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes, then add a small amount of oil.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta but do not rinse it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper.
- Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the honey mixture over the chicken. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the chicken until it becomes thick and sticky.
- Return the drained pasta to the empty pot over low heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it is melted and creamy.
- Transfer the cheesy pasta to the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
- Let the glazed chicken rest for 2 minutes, then slice it into strips.
- Arrange the chicken strips over the mac and cheese, then drizzle any remaining glaze over the dish.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the edges are bubbly and the top has a slight golden hue.
How to Serve Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. It makes a great meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh garden salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra honey glaze over the top for added flavor!
How to Store Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until it is warmed through.
Tips to Make Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the garlic and cheese.
- If you want a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the honey glaze.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the mac and cheese for added nutrition. Alternatively, try using a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to cook it until al dente before mixing it with the cheese.
2. Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand. Start with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of the fresh cloves.
3. Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Just cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Copycat Applebee's Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth, then bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, then season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the honey pepper sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet and toss to coat, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Divide the creamy macaroni and cheese among serving plates.
- Top each serving with a generous portion of the honey pepper chicken.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your copycat Applebee's meal.