Name: Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 16 oz spiral noodles; 1 25 oz breaded chicken strips; 5 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled); Salt; Pepper; Basil (chopped fresh); 3/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 3 Tbs soy sauce (low sodium); 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 1 unit lemon (Juice of); 1 Tbs vinegar; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 stick butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded); 3/4 cup colby jack cheese (freshly shredded); 2-3 cloves minced garlic

Introduction to Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Are you craving a comfort food classic that’s both delicious and easy to make at home? Look no further than this Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese. It’s the ultimate blend of creamy macaroni, tender chicken, and that sweet-and-savory honey pepper sauce that you can’t resist!

A Delicious Homemade Alternative to Your Restaurant Favorite

Eating out is great, but there’s something special about whipping up your favorite restaurant dishes right in your kitchen. Not only do you save money, but you can also customize the ingredients. This recipe delivers all the flavors you love without the hassle of a restaurant wait. With just a handful of ingredients, including spiral noodles and turkey bacon, you'll have a hearty meal ready in no time.

The honey pepper sauce is a standout, combining the sweetness of honey with a peppery kick, elevating the traditional mac and cheese experience. Plus, with only 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, you’ll find that creating this divine dish is easy as pie. So, why not gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful culinary adventure? Your taste buds are in for a treat!

For more inspiration, check out this article on transforming classic recipes at home.

Ingredients for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you're ready to indulge in a homemade version of the copycat Applebee’s honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, let's go over the essential ingredients. Nothing quite compares to the richcombination of flavors in this dish!

Main Ingredients

16 oz spiral noodles – They hold onto cheese sauce beautifully!
25 oz bag breaded chicken strips – For that delightful crunch.
5 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled – A healthier alternative for added flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Basil – Adds a fresh herbaceous note.

Honey Pepper Sauce Ingredients

¾ cup honey – For that sweet, sticky goodness.
¼ cup light brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness.
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor.
¼ cup pineapple juice – Brings a fruity brightness.
Juice of 1 lemon – Balances the sweetness.
1 tablespoon vinegar – Adds a tangy kick.
1 teaspoon black pepper – Gives it a bit of heat.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – For those who love a spicy zing!

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

1 stick butter – The base of your creamy sauce.
2 cups heavy cream – Luxurious and utterly delicious.
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese – For a sharp flavor.
1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded – Melts beautifully.
¾ cup colby jack cheese, freshly shredded – Adds a creamy texture.
2-3 cloves minced garlic – Infuses fantastic depth.
Chopped fresh basil – To finish it off with style!

Once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish! Want to make this meal even easier? Don’t forget to check out whole-foods like USDA Food Data for additional cooking tips and nutritional information.

Preparing Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re ready to recreate that delicious copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese, let’s dive into the steps to whip up this irresistible dish at home. It might look like a lot of work, but each step leads to a creamy, savory masterpiece you’ll love.

Cook the chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. You can go for the convenience of a frozen bag of breaded chicken strips or make your own from scratch. If you choose the frozen option, follow the package directions for baking or deep frying. For homemade, consider using seasoned chicken breasts cut into strips, breaded, and then baked until golden brown. The crispy chicken is the heart of this dish, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Boil the spiral noodles

While your chicken is cooking, turn your attention to the pasta. Grab a 16 oz box of spiral noodles and boil them according to the package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Remember to salt your water generously; it’ll help flavor the pasta throughout. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Prepare the Honey Pepper Sauce

Next up is the star of the show: the Honey Pepper Sauce. In a medium saucepan, mix together ¾ cup honey, ¼ cup light brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup pineapple juice, the juice of one lemon, a tablespoon of vinegar, and a teaspoon of black pepper. Optional: adding ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper will give it a delightful kick! Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring often. The goal here is to thicken the sauce slightly, so be patient!

Make the Cheese Sauce

Now, let’s talk cheese! In a large pan, melt 1 stick of butter with 2 cups of heavy cream. Once melted, gently incorporate shredded Parmesan, mozzarella, and colby jack cheeses—about ½ cup, 1 cup, and ¾ cup respectively. Add in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Stir continuously until everything is wonderfully gooey and melted together.

Combine the pasta, sauces, and turkey bacon

Time to bring it all together! Toss the cooked spiral noodles into your cheese sauce and stir well to coat. It’s here that you add in the flavor punch—crumble up 5 slices of cooked turkey bacon into the mix.

Coat the chicken strips with sauce

Once your chicken is cooked and crispy, it's time to coat each strip with your prepared honey pepper sauce. This step gives the chicken that signature sweet and spicy glaze, making it absolutely irresistible.

Serve and enjoy!

Finally, it’s time for the grand assembly! Spoon out portions of the creamy mac and cheese onto plates, and top each serving with the glazed chicken strips. If you have some extra turkey bacon or fresh basil on hand, sprinkle those on top for an added crunch and burst of flavor. Grab your fork and dig in! Trust me, this copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese will soon become a favorite in your home.

By following these steps, you'll soon savor every cheesy, sweet, and savory bite. Happy cooking!

Variations on Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Option

Are you craving a kick in your copycat Applebee’s honey pepper chicken mac and cheese? Consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the honey pepper sauce. This will elevate your dish by giving it that spicy zing that balances perfectly with the creamy cheese and savory chicken. Switch out the regular chicken strips for a spicier, blackened chicken version for an added flavor punch. You won’t regret it!

Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Alternative

For a meat-free twist, swap the chicken with your favorite grilled vegetables or a hearty veggie burger. You can even use plant-based bacon alternatives to keep that savory flavor without the meat. Don’t forget to infuse your cheese sauce with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This way, you maintain that creamy comfort of honey pepper mac and cheese while catering to plant lovers at your table.

Cooking tips for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

How to achieve creamy cheese sauce

To create a velvety cheese sauce that's the star of your copycat Applebee’s honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, start with freshly shredded cheeses. Pre-shredded varieties can contain anti-caking agents that prevent melting. Also, slowly add your cheeses to the melted butter and cream, stirring continuously until fully melted before adding the next type. This method ensures a smooth, creamy consistency that coat every noodle perfectly.

Best practices for cooking chicken

When preparing your chicken, make sure to pat it dry before cooking. This allows for a crispy exterior and better flavor absorption. If you're using breaded chicken strips, consider lightly seasoning them before cooking to enhance the overall flavor. Don’t forget to preheat your oven for even cooking! For an extra touch, brush the cooked chicken strips with the honey pepper sauce while they’re still warm, creating a delicious glaze.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, these tips will elevate your Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese to the next level!

Serving suggestions for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Pairing with sides
To elevate your copycat Applebee's honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, consider pairing it with light and refreshing sides. A crisp green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette or roasted veggies adds a nice balance to the rich, creamy dish. You could also serve it alongside some crispy garlic bread for that perfect comfort food experience. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, steamed broccoli or green beans can cut through the richness and provide a delightful crunch.

Ideal garnishes
Garnishing is key to making your meal visually appealing! Top your honey pepper chicken mac and cheese with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese right before serving can also enhance that cheesy goodness. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of your honey pepper sauce over the top adds a sweet touch that complements the flavors beautifully. For a little extra zing, consider a squeeze of lemon or a few chili flakes to elevate the flavor profile even further.

By combining these suggestions, you'll not only impress your guests with the delightful flavors but also create a gorgeous plate that’s a feast for the eyes!

Time Breakdown for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

When you're ready to whip up this delicious copycat Applebee’s honey pepper chicken mac and cheese, here’s a quick time guide to help plan your cooking adventure:

Preparation Time

Get your ingredients prepped and ready in about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your noodles, sauces, and chicken.

Cooking Time

Once you've got everything in place, the cooking will take roughly 25 minutes. You’ll be stirring, mixing, and baking in no time!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick, right? Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a bit indulgent without taking all evening!

This copycat recipe is not only quick to prepare but will also impress your friends and family, leaving them guessing how you replicated such a favorite restaurant dish at home! For more on time-saving meal prep tips, check out resources from Nutrition.gov.

Nutritional Facts for Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

If you’re wondering about the nutritional profile of this delightful dish, here’s a quick overview of the copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 1,037 calories, making it a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Protein

With 26 grams of protein per serving, this dish offers a good source of nutrients to help keep you feeling full and energized throughout your day.

Fat

The mac and cheese is rich in flavor, including around 72 grams of fat. While delicious, it may be a good idea to enjoy this creation in moderation alongside a balanced diet.

For more detailed nutrition insights, consider checking out resources from the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData for a deeper dive into your dietary choices. Happy cooking!

FAQs about Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Can I use regular pasta instead of spiral noodles?

Absolutely! While the copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese traditionally calls for spiral noodles, you can easily swap them out for any pasta of your choice, like macaroni or penne. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as some shapes cook faster than others.

How can I make it healthier?

If you're aiming for a lighter dish, consider these tweaks: use whole grain pasta for added fiber, substitute heavy cream with a lighter option, like cashew cream or almond milk, and replace the turkey bacon with grilled veggies. You might also want to reduce the amount of cheese or opt for low-fat versions. Every little change adds up!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese ahead of time! Simply cook everything and combine, then refrigerate it. Just reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving. For extra creaminess, you might need to add a splash of milk during reheating.

By unlocking these helpful tips, you’ll not only enjoy making this delightful dish but will impress your friends with your culinary skills as well!

Conclusion on Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

Making this copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese at home is a delightful experience. You’ll love the rich flavors of the creamy cheese sauce combined with tender chicken and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Dish

This Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can modify the recipe to fit your dietary preferences or experiment with different types of cheeses for a unique twist.

Flavor Explosion: The honey pepper sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
Comfort Food at Its Best: There's something about a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone together.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal even on busy nights.

So, why not gather your friends and family for a cozy dinner? This dish is bound to become a favorite in your home. For more tasty recipes and insights, check out Food Network or Serious Eats!