Applebee’s Mac And Cheese Honey Chicken Recipe (Copycat)
This Applebee’s Mac & Cheese Honey Chicken Recipe (Copycat) is a decadent dish featuring crispy honey-glazed chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and smoky bacon. Perfectly balances sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, making it an irresistible comfort meal.
Equipment
- 1 pressure cooker Large
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces spiral pasta Gotta have the right noodle shape to hold sauce.
- 25 ounces breaded chicken strips Ready for that crispy honey coating moment.
- 5 slices bacon Cooked and crumbled to sprinkle on top for juicy bites.
- Salt and black pepper Y'all know, seasoning makes all the difference.
- Fresh basil leaves If you wanna fancy it up with a little green fresh pop.
- ¾ cup honey For that sticky sweet base in your sauce.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar To add that deep molasses kick blending with honey real good.
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce Helps balance sweet with a savory punch.
- ¼ cup pineapple juice For fruity brightness making the sauce zing.
- 1 stick unsalted butter Melted.
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2-3 cloves garlic Minced.
Instructions
Instructions
- Follow the package instructions to bake or air-fry the breaded chicken strips until golden and crispy. Simultaneously, cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Stir in the crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.
- Take the crispy chicken strips and coat them generously in the honey pepper sauce until evenly glazed. Serve immediately.
Notes
To make this dish gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. Opt for gluten-free breaded chicken strips, or prepare homemade gluten-free chicken tenders. Substitute gluten-free soy sauce in the honey pepper sauce. Verify that all seasonings and cheeses are labeled gluten-free. This adaptation ensures the dish retains its indulgent texture and flavors while being safe for those avoiding gluten.