Description
This vibrant and flavorful Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta combines tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and peppery glaze, tossed with pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s a simple yet mouthwatering meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later. - Prepare the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. - Make the Honey Pepper Glaze:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add honey, soy sauce, and a pinch of extra black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the glaze thicken slightly. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the honey pepper sauce. - Prepare the Pasta Sauce:
In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and dried basil, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. - Serve:
Plate the creamy pasta and top it with the honey pepper chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
- If you prefer more spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg