Description
Homemade Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your table. Tender fettuccine, crispy bacon, and seasoned chicken are coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce with a hint of honey and pepper for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- ½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Prepare the Fettuccine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. Return the pasta to the pot.
- Cook the Bacon and Garlic
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Transfer the bacon and garlic to a bowl, leaving half the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Cook the Chicken
- Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add olive oil.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Reduce heat to low and return the bacon and garlic to the skillet.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the chicken and bacon. Toss gently to combine.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and toss quickly to coat.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.
- Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky sauce.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest result.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: American-Italian