Description
Sweet, crispy honey-glazed chicken paired with rich, creamy mac and cheese — the ultimate comfort food combo perfect for dinner, meal prep, or family feasts.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
500g (1 lb) chicken breast or tenderloins
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1 cup crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs
1 egg or ½ cup egg substitute
Cooking spray or oil
¼ cup honey or hot honey
For the Mac and Cheese:
200g (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
1 cup fat-free cottage cheese or light cream
1 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese
¼ cup skim milk or regular milk
½ tsp paprika
Optional: 1 tsp mustard powder, pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
Dip each piece into beaten egg, then coat in crushed cornflakes or panko.
Spray lightly with cooking oil.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, or bake in the oven at the same temperature until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Once cooked, brush or drizzle with honey or hot honey.
3️⃣ Make the Mac and Cheese:
Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine cottage cheese (or cream), cheddar, milk, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add cooked pasta and mix well.
4️⃣ Assemble and Serve:
Plate creamy mac and cheese, top with honey-glazed chicken, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
Notes
For extra spice, mix red pepper flakes into the honey glaze.
Make gluten-free by using GF pasta and breadcrumbs.
For a baked mac version, sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake for 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer or Oven (for chicken), Stovetop (for mac and cheese)
- Cuisine: American