Description
If you’re craving a dish bursting with bold flavors and hearty textures, this Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is the perfect choice. The tender chicken, coated in a sweet and peppery glaze, paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, creates a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or special treat.
Ingredients
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set the sauce aside.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Pour the honey pepper sauce over the chicken and cook for another 2–3 minutes, turning the chicken to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir, letting it simmer for 3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the sliced honey pepper chicken on top and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of honey and black pepper to suit your taste. Add more honey for sweetness or extra pepper for a spicier kick.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: American