Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Victor
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce, grilled to perfection, and served over a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta. The dish balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a luscious creamy sauce, making it a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
  • Freshly ground black pepper for seasoning chicken

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cracked black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful honey pepper marinade.
  2. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil, heating until it shimmers and coats the pan.
  4. Cook Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Caramelize Sauce: Drizzle the prepared honey pepper sauce over the chicken in the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and caramelize slightly.
  6. Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices, then slice into thin strips.
  7. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne or fusilli pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and reserve some pasta cooking water.
  8. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté minced garlic over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  9. Make Cream Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and simmer gently for 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  10. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
  11. Season Sauce: Season the creamy sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
  12. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water if necessary to adjust sauce consistency to your preference.
  13. Assemble Dish: Arrange the sliced honey pepper chicken strips over the creamy pasta in the skillet or serving dish.
  14. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • The reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick; add it gradually.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich.
  • Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbal note that balances the savory flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Honey pepper chicken, creamy pasta, chicken panini pasta, easy dinner recipe, honey glazed chicken, Parmesan cream sauce, penne pasta recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://tastywithvictor.com/best-honey-pepper-chicken-panini-pasta-recipe/