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–+ servings

Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

A comforting and savory pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a sweet honey glaze, and a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Honey Pepper Glaze

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for optimal flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for pan-searing)
  • 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Honey Pepper Glaze

  • Whisk honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, and red chili flakes in a small bowl until glossy. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken

  • Pat chicken dry and dredge in seasoned flour mixed with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat oil until shimmering and sear the chicken until golden. Pour half the glaze over the chicken near the end.

Boil the Pasta

  • Cook penne in well-salted water until just al dente. Drain, saving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Creamy Pasta Sauce

  • Melt butter in the same pan, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
  • Stir in bell peppers and cook until softened. Pour in chicken broth and cream, bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Whisk in Parmesan until the sauce feels silky and thickens.

Combine Everything

  • Add the drained pasta and spinach to the sauce and toss. Slice the chicken and nestle it on top.
  • Pour the remaining glaze over and stir until glossy and warm.

Serve and Garnish

  • Spoon into bowls and scatter chopped parsley and extra freshly ground pepper on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh butter for a better taste. For lighter versions, swap half the cream with milk. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 900mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10g
Keyword Comfort Food, Honey Chicken, Panini, Pasta, Quick Dinner
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