Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken has been a game-changer in my kitchen, transforming ordinary weeknights into something truly special. I remember the first time I tried the original at Applebee’s, and I was instantly hooked by that perfect balance of sweet honey and a hint of spice, all coating tender chicken. Recreating that magic at home felt like unlocking a delicious secret. Now, I can whip up this amazing dish whenever the craving strikes, enjoying that familiar, craveable flavor. It’s the closest you’ll get to the real deal, delivering that authentic Applebees Honey Chicken copycat restaurant style experience right in your own home. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken
This recipe truly has it all! You’ll adore the incredible sweet and slightly spicy flavor that mimics the original perfectly. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy those cravings without leaving your house.
- Incredible Taste: Experience that signature sweet, savory, and subtly spicy flavor profile you love.
- Quick Prep Time: Get a restaurant-quality meal on the table fast, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this delicious dish at home instead of dining out.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike rave about this crowd-pleasing meal. It’s an Easy Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken that everyone will devour.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as is or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
- Simple to Make: This Easy Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken recipe is straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
- Satisfying: It’s a hearty and comforting dish that hits all the right flavor notes.
Ingredients for Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic of this dish. You’ll find that making this Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken at home is surprisingly simple, and the payoff is huge in flavor. The honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes come together to form the most amazing Applebees Honey Chicken copycat marinade and glaze, giving the chicken that signature sweet and spicy kick.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for cooking the chicken
- 1/4 cup honey, the star of our glaze
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, for that savory depth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, adding a tangy complexity
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
- 8 ounces macaroni, cooked according to package directions
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened, to make the sauce creamy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for cheesy goodness
- 1/2 cup milk, to help melt the cheeses
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for a fresh garnish
How to Make Applebees Honey Chicken Copycat Recipe Easy
Get ready to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen! These simple steps will guide you through making the Best Applebees Honey Chicken Copycat, ensuring a delicious meal every time. We’ll start with preparing the chicken and then move on to that irresistible honey pepper glaze. These Applebees Honey Grilled Chicken copycat instructions are designed for ease and maximum flavor.
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a shallow dish, whisk together the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika. This seasoned flour mixture is key to getting that perfect crust on your chicken.
- Step 2: Dredge the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Step 3: Heat the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the floured chicken pieces. Cook until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the browning chicken is the first sign of deliciousness!
- Step 4: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the star of the show: the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes. This creates your signature sweet and slightly spicy sauce.
- Step 5: Once the chicken is cooked and golden, pour the prepared honey mixture directly over the chicken in the skillet. Stir everything together gently to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for just 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, clinging beautifully to each piece. This step truly makes it the Authentic Applebees Honey Chicken copycat.
- Step 6: In a separate bowl, combine the 8 ounces macaroni (cooked according to package directions), 4 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup milk. Stir these ingredients together until the cheeses are completely melted and you have a luxuriously creamy mac and cheese sauce.
- Step 7: Now, add the glorious honey pepper chicken mixture to the creamy macaroni and cheese. Stir gently to combine all the elements, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. These Applebees Honey Grilled Chicken copycat instructions ensure a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
- Step 8: Serve your amazing homemade Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken immediately, garnished with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the incredible taste!
Pro Tips for the Best Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken
Want to elevate your homemade dish from good to absolutely amazing? Follow these simple tricks to ensure your Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken is a showstopper every single time. These little tips make a big difference in achieving that perfect restaurant-style flavor and texture at home.
- Don’t skip dredging the chicken in the seasoned flour; it helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce slightly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear, which locks in juices.
- Taste and adjust the honey glaze before adding it to the chicken – you might want a little more heat or sweetness!
- For extra creamy mac and cheese, use room temperature cream cheese and milk.
What’s the secret to perfect Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken?
The real magic lies in balancing the sweet honey with the savory soy sauce and a touch of Dijon. The red pepper flakes are crucial for that subtle kick that makes it so addictive. It’s not really a secret ingredient, but the ratio is key!
Can I make Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken ahead of time?
You can prepare components ahead of time! Cook the chicken and make the glaze up to a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat the chicken in the glaze before adding it to freshly made mac and cheese.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Homemade Applebees Honey Chicken recipe?
Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it tough. Also, don’t overmix the mac and cheese, as it can become gummy. Ensure your cream cheese is softened for a smooth sauce. For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this spaghetti with garlic and oil recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken for Home
This dish is so versatile, making it a winner for any meal! The combination of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice is a big part of why is Applebees Honey Chicken so good, and it pairs wonderfully with so many things. For a truly authentic experience, serve this glorious mac and cheese topped with the honey pepper chicken as a complete meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for complementary sides, I love pairing it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans also add a nice fresh contrast. For a more casual meal, you can serve smaller portions of the mac and cheese as a side dish alongside grilled steak or pork chops. It truly is a crowd-pleaser! Consider trying caprese salad for a fresh side.
Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken
When you make this delicious Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken at home, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting nutritionally. This recipe aims to capture the restaurant’s flavor profile, and these figures give you a good idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving. It’s a rich and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of macronutrients. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of onions, a common ingredient in many savory dishes.
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Applebees Honey Chicken Copycat Recipe Easy
To keep this delicious dish tasting its best, proper storage is key! Once your homemade Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken has cooled down slightly, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. For the best quality, refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. This dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option!
For freezing, divide the mac and cheese with the honey chicken into individual portions or a larger freezer-safe container. Properly sealed, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for a Quick Applebees Honey Chicken copycat meal whenever the craving strikes. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For reheating, the microwave is usually the quickest method, but you can also gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it seems a bit dry, to restore that creamy texture. Consider pairing with easy cinnamon rolls for a sweet treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Authentic Applebees Honey Chicken copycat
What is the Applebees Honey Chicken sauce?
The famous sauce is a delightful blend of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, tangy Dijon mustard, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. It’s this signature sauce that truly makes the Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken so addictive and is the key to achieving that Authentic Applebees Honey Chicken copycat flavor at home.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for my Homemade Applebees Honey Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are often more forgiving and can stay incredibly moist. Just trim any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The cooking time might be slightly longer, so ensure they are cooked through before adding the glaze. They’ll still absorb that delicious honey flavor beautifully when making your Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken.
How do I make the mac and cheese creamier for my Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken?
To ensure a super creamy mac and cheese, use softened cream cheese and milk that’s at room temperature. Stirring gently until the cheeses are fully melted is also important. If it seems a little thick, a splash more milk can help achieve that perfect, smooth consistency for your Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken.
What are the best side dishes for Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken?
This dish is quite rich and flavorful on its own, so lighter sides work best. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette is fantastic for cutting through the sweetness. Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or even some garlic bread are also excellent choices that complement the Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken without overpowering it. For a heartier side, try pappardelle with beef ragu.
Variations of Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily put your own spin on it to suit your preferences or dietary needs! Experimenting with variations is a fun way to keep things exciting and discover new favorites. Here are a few ideas to get you started with your homemade Applebees Honey Chicken copycat.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love extra heat, don’t shy away from adding more red pepper flakes to the honey glaze. You could even add a dash of sriracha for a different kind of spicy punch.
- Flavor Twist: Try incorporating a bit of barbecue sauce into the honey glaze to create a delicious Copycat Applebees Honey BBQ Chicken. This adds a smoky, tangy dimension that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Dietary Swaps: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your soy sauce is tamari. You can also experiment with different types of protein, like shrimp or even tofu, for a vegetarian twist.
- Cooking Method: If you prefer not to use the skillet, you can bake the chicken after dredging it. Toss the chicken with the glaze and bake on a sheet pan until cooked through. This also works for a quicker, oven-baked Applebees Honey Chicken copycat.
Irresistible Copycat Applebees Honey Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe lets you create the popular Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese at home. It’s a creamy, cheesy dish with a sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken topping, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces macaroni, cooked
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the honey mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This creates your Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken topping.
- In a separate bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the honey pepper chicken mixture to the macaroni and cheese. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes to the honey sauce.
- You can substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.
- This recipe is a great way to make a restaurant-style Copycat Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken dish at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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