Applebee’s Mac and Cheese Honey Chicken Recipe
Applebee’s Mac & Cheese Honey Chicken Recipe is a creamy, comforting dish layered with cheesy mac, crispy honey-glazed chicken, and smoky bacon. Now, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home without losing its bold flavors. Do you remember craving a hearty, indulgent meal that’s neither salad nor light pasta? That’s exactly what this dish delivers: crispy, saucy, cheesy comfort food. After multiple trials, this copycat recipe brings the original Applebee’s experience straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Mac and Cheese Honey Chicken Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy all the flavors of Applebee’s Mac & Cheese Honey Chicken right from your kitchen.
- Healthy Comfort: Though indulgent, the dish combines protein-rich chicken and wholesome cheese with your favorite sides.
- Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, you can make this recipe quickly.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Serve to family or guests; it’s impossible to resist.
- Customizable: Add extra spices, cheeses, or toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredient Notes
This dish relies on three key components: creamy mac and cheese, honey-glazed crispy chicken, and smoky bacon.
The Base
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 25 oz breaded chicken strips | Use frozen or homemade strips |
| 5 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled | Adds smoky, savory flavor |
| Salt & pepper | Enhances taste |
| Fresh basil | Optional, for a fresh garnish |
Honey Pepper Sauce (The Secret Star)
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Honey | ¾ cup | Adds sticky sweetness |
| Light brown sugar | ¼ cup | Balances flavors |
| Low sodium soy sauce | 3 tsp | Adds umami and saltiness |
| Pineapple juice | ¼ cup | Tropical twist |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Brightens sauce |
| Vinegar | 1 tsp | Adds zing |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ tsp | Optional heat |
Cheese Sauce (Liquid Gold)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1 stick | Base for sauce |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups | Creates richness |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup shredded | Adds nutty flavor |
| Mozzarella | 1 cup shredded | Melty, gooey texture |
| Colby Jack | ¾ cup sliced | Creamy consistency |
| Garlic | 2–3 cloves | Enhances flavor |
How to Make Applebee’s Mac and Cheese Honey Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Pasta
Cook chicken strips and pasta according to package instructions. Set aside and prepare the sauces.
Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, black pepper, lemon juice, and cayenne. Boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until thick and sticky.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, then add mozzarella, parmesan, and Colby Jack cheeses. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Toss cooked pasta with cheese sauce and crumbled bacon. Coat chicken strips generously with honey pepper sauce.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Place mac and cheese in bowls, top with honey-glazed chicken, and garnish with extra bacon or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy hot!
Storage Options
| Storage Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Fridge | Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Freeze chicken and honey pepper sauce separately for up to 2 months (cheese sauce may not freeze well) |
| Reheating | Reheat mac & cheese on low flame with a splash of milk; crisp chicken in air fryer or oven |
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
- Lighten it Up: Use half the cream and grilled chicken instead of fried.
- Extra Crispy Chicken: Sear glazed chicken on a griddle for 2–3 minutes.
- Different Cheese Blend: Try smoked Gouda, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar.
Also check applebee’s steaks & Ribs to try something scrumptous and mouthwatering.
What to Serve with Applebee’s Mac and Cheese Honey Chicken
- Steamed broccoli for a healthy balance
- Side salad to complement the cheesy richness
- Garlic bread for extra indulgence
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Store chicken, sauces, and pasta separately, and combine when ready to serve for best texture.
How do I maintain the creamy texture of mac & cheese when reheating?
Heat over low flame with a splash of milk to prevent the sauce from drying out and maintain creaminess.
Can I use homemade chicken strips instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fry homemade chicken strips before coating with honey pepper sauce for perfect crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Applebee’s Mac & Cheese Honey Chicken copycat recipe is crispy, cheesy, sweet, and utterly indulgent. Perfect for comfort food lovers, it’s easy to prepare at home and sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and share your experience with friends and family!