Irresistible Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Name: Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 8 oz medium pasta shells; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup pure honey; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper; Salt to taste; Nonstick cooking spray

Published: April 12, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners ground beef dinner options.

Ingredients for Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
Pasta Shells: Use medium-sized pasta shells to hold the creamy cheese sauce perfectly
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A blend of sharp and mild cheddar adds depth to the cheese sauce
Honey: Opt for pure honey to achieve that perfect sweetness in the glaze

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor and adds a hint of spice

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Once your chicken is cooked, pour the glaze over it in the skillet and let it simmer for an additional minute until well-coated.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken simmers in its glaze, cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Cheese

In another pot over medium heat, combine cooked pasta shells with shredded cheddar cheese and a splash of milk until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Transfer the cheesy pasta into your prepared baking dish. Slice your glazed chicken into strips and arrange them on top of the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until bubbly.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional honey pepper glaze for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in honey soy mixture overnight before cooking

How to Serve Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

This Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare components like the chicken and cheese sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry. Heat until warm, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Suggestions for Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

One common mistake when preparing Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is overcooking the pasta. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and lose its delightful texture. Follow the package instructions closely, cooking the pasta until it reaches al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, drain it immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This simple step ensures your dish maintains that perfect bite, offering a satisfying contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. Remember, your pasta should complement the dish, not become a soggy mess. For more inspiration, check out this creamy mac and cheese recipe recipe.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Dried herbs and stale vegetables can dull the flavors of your dish. Opt for freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives to enhance aroma and taste. Similarly, using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties can significantly elevate the creaminess of your mac and cheese. Fresh chicken should also be preferred; it will cook more evenly and provide a juicy texture that frozen options cannot replicate. The freshness of your ingredients directly impacts the overall flavor profile of this comforting dish.

Balance Flavors Carefully

Balancing flavors is essential in creating a delicious Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. Too much sweetness from honey can overpower other flavors, while excessive spice might make it unpalatable. Start with a small amount of honey and gradually add more to reach your desired sweetness level. sweet potato side dish When seasoning, consider using black pepper for heat but keep it subtle to avoid overwhelming the dish’s richness. Taste as you go along; this practice helps you achieve a harmonious blend where each ingredient shines without overshadowing others.

Pay Attention to Cooking Times

Timing is everything when making Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry and tough; this ruins the dish’s overall texture. Cook chicken breasts over medium heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring juiciness remains intact. Similarly, once you combine all elements in one pot, don’t let them simmer for too long or they may lose their individual characteristics. Proper cooking times will help maintain flavor integrity throughout your meal.

FAQs:

What makes Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese unique?

Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese stands out due to its perfect blend of flavors—sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bowl. The honey adds a delightful sweetness that balances out the heat from black pepper, while creamy cheese envelops the pasta beautifully. This combination creates a comforting yet exciting dish that captures restaurant-quality taste right in your home kitchen.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time! To do so, follow all steps except baking it in the oven at first. Once assembled, cover it with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or hosting gatherings where you need easy-to-prepare dishes ready to go.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

There are several variations you can experiment with while making Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese! You could substitute grilled shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider adding buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce instead of honey for a spicy kick! Don’t hesitate to get creative.

How do I store leftovers from Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese?

To store leftovers effectively from Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, allow them to cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking; they can last up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months—just remember that reheating may affect texture slightly.

Conclusion for Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese:

In summary, mastering Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese involves attention to detail—from choosing fresh ingredients to balancing flavors well during preparation. Avoid common pitfalls such as overcooking pasta or neglecting seasoning balance to ensure delicious results every time you make this dish at home. You can customize it according to personal preferences as well as store leftovers properly for future meals! Enjoy this delightful comfort food on any occasion; it promises satisfaction with each creamy bite! For more inspiration, check out this ham and cheese sliders recipe.

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