Four cheese mac and cheese with honey pepper chicken

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This copycat Applebee’s 4 cheese mac & cheese with honey pepper chicken tenders is simple and delicious – it’s great for children and adults. Even those who don’t like mac and cheese love it!

Macaroni and cheese is not one of my favorite foods. The thought of eating it usually makes me feel a little bit sick. Jack loves it though. I don’t get it. Well, a few months ago, I went to Applebee’s with my mom. As I looked at the menu, I kept looking at the 4 cheese mac and cheese with honey pepper chicken tenders. Normally, I would pass anything that says “mac and cheese” in the title, but it just looked so good. Plus, it didn’t appear to have cheddar in it, which is probably one of the main reasons I don’t love most macaroni and cheese recipes. The honey pepper chicken tenders sounded absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 6 frozen, precooked chicken tenders (I used Tyson brand)
• 1 lb uncooked cavatappi pasta
• 2/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup lite soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 2 cups Italian blend shredded cheese
• 1/2 stick butter
• 2 cups evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon corn starch
• Bacon bits

Instructions

1. Cook and drain pasta. Set aside.
2. Cook chicken tenders in the oven according to instructions.
3. While chicken tenders are cooking, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for 2 minutes, stirring the whole time. Bring down to a simmer and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In another pan, combine cheese, butter, evaporated milk, parsley flakes, and garlic. Melt over medium-high heat until it starts to lightly boil. Add corn starch and whisk until it starts to thicken then bring to low heat until ready to serve, stirring occasionally.
5. When chicken is done, remove from oven and cut into smaller pieces. Cover chicken with the honey sauce.
6. Add pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until coated. Add bacon and chicken and serve.

Notes

Katie is a Colorado-native, BYU graduated, and most importantly, wife to one and mother to three beautiful boys. She is passionate about sharing her experiences with others – especially about pregnancy, breastfeeding, cooking, and crafts. She is currently training to be a Certified Lactation Educator. She loves spending time with her family and helping others find joy in family life.