Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Strips

Begin by preparing your breaded chicken strips according to package instructions. You can choose to bake or fry them, depending on your preference. For an extra homemade touch, you can prepare breaded chicken strips from scratch:

1. Marinate the chicken: If time permits, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 1 hour before breading. This adds tenderness and allows the breading to adhere better.
2. Bread the chicken: Dip each strip in a seasoned flour mixture, followed by an egg wash, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
3. Cook: Fry until golden and crispy, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Once done, set these strips aside to cool slightly, as they’ll be coated in honey pepper sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Spiral Noodles

While the chicken is cooking, boil the spiral noodles in salted water until they reach an al dente texture. Spiral noodles, such as rotini or fusilli, work best because they hold onto the creamy cheese sauce well. Once cooked, drain and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, lemon juice, pineapple juice, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
2. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly and intensify the flavors.
3. Once the sauce has thickened, set it aside to cool.

This honey pepper sauce is the star of the dish, bringing sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy elements that make every bite exciting.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is where this dish truly shines. Here’s how to create a creamy, luxurious base:

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute, releasing its aroma.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and Colby jack, stirring after each addition until melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This creamy sauce will cling to each noodle, creating a perfect balance between the noodles and cheese.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Cheese Sauce, and Diced Chicken

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat each noodle completely.
2. Stir in the cooked, diced chicken breast, mixing well so that each bite has a hint of savory chicken.

The diced chicken adds extra flavor and texture throughout the dish, acting as a substitute for the usual bacon.

Step 6: Glaze the Breaded Chicken Strips

Now for the exciting part: coating the breaded chicken strips in honey pepper sauce!

1. Take the cooked, breaded chicken strips and place them in a bowl.
2. Pour the honey pepper sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece evenly.

This step transforms the chicken into a flavor-packed topping for the mac and cheese, adding a sweet, spicy glaze that will contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

1. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the cheesy pasta mixture onto each plate.
2. Top with the honey-glazed chicken strips, allowing them to sit on top for a visually stunning presentation.
3. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

For an extra indulgent touch, consider a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or a drizzle of leftover honey pepper sauce over the top.