If you’re ready to treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food hybrid, you have to try this Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta! Imagine everything you love about a toasted honey pepper chicken panini—the sweet and spicy glaze, juicy strips of chicken, and creamy cheese—tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta in a dreamy, velvety sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress friends for dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meal, this dish will easily become a new favorite at your table thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple but spectacular! These core ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor, irresistible creaminess, and just the right hint of spice and sweetness. Each element brings its own magic, from the rich cheeses to that tangy honey pepper glaze.

12 oz penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape—sturdy enough to hold all that luscious sauce and little bits of chicken in every bite.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips: Lean protein that soaks up all the spices and sauce, making each mouthful tender and flavorful.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness, ensuring your chicken turns gloriously golden in the pan.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to perfectly season both your chicken and the finished dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat that layers beautifully with the sweet and tangy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, savory depth that gives the chicken irresistible flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for a subtle, aromatic undertone that rounds out the sauce.
1/2 cup honey: The star sweetness that caramelizes for a gloss and flavor right from your favorite honey pepper panini.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Brings bright tang that balances the honey’s sweetness and awakens your taste buds.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: A little umami magic that deepens both sweetness and savory notes.
1 tablespoon cracked black pepper (adjust to taste): Gives the sauce a bold, peppery kick that makes every forkful pop.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat, just a pinch transforms the whole dish.
2 tablespoons butter: The key to a silk-smooth, glossy finish for your sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious, creamy richness for that signature velvety sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce to perfection.
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into dreamy strings for that classic panini-inspired touch.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brings a burst of bright color and freshness to the finished bowl.

How to Make Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente—think just tender with a little bite left. A good pasta provides the backbone for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta, soaking up the luscious sauce and keeping every forkful hearty and satisfying. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Don’t overcook, as the pasta will simmer again later for even more flavor!

Step 2: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce

This sauce is what transforms a simple chicken and pasta recipe into the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta wonder! In a small saucepan, combine the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and, if you like a touch of heat, the red pepper flakes. Simmer over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat to let the flavors meld—it should smell sweet, sharp, and a little spicy!

Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken strips with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let those spices hug every piece! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high and add the chicken. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, tossing occasionally, until your chicken is golden, lightly crispy at the edges, and perfectly cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside so it stays juicy and ready for its big moment.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce Base

In the same skillet (no need to clean—it’s full of savory flavor!), melt your butter and pour in that fragrant honey pepper sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, whisking gently until the sauce becomes silky smooth, creamy, and rich. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to gently bubble and looks irresistibly glossy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add both the cooked pasta and chicken strips to the skillet, tossing everything to coat every last piece in the sweet, peppery, cheesy goodness. Let it all heat through for another minute or two so the flavors mingle and the sauce hugs every twist and turn of the pasta. Give your Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta a taste, adjust the seasoning if needed, and get ready to serve!

How to Serve Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Garnishes

Garnishing makes all the difference—sprinkle your finished pasta with a rain of fresh parsley for beautiful color and a burst of freshness! If you want to take it up a notch, add crispy bacon bits or a scattering of fried onions for a savory crunch that’s reminiscent of the best honey pepper chicken panini you’ve ever tasted.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a statement all its own, but some sides never hurt! Try pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness, or add toasted garlic bread for hearty scooping. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also make a lovely, colorful complement.

Creative Ways to Present

For date night or family dinner, serve your Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta in shallow bowls so everyone can see all that golden chicken and gleaming sauce. Hosting a crowd? Turn it into a pasta bake—just top with extra mozzarella and broil for a bubbly finish! Or, portion it into ramekins for a charming, individual presentation that’s sure to get oohs and ahhs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this dish are truly a gift! Store any remaining Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner something to look forward to.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze this pasta for future cravings, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate slightly when thawed, but a gentle reheat and a splash of cream or milk will help restore its silky magic.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring between each interval. Stir till it’s heated through and just as creamy as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne is classic for the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta, you can substitute rigatoni, fusilli, or any short pasta shape you enjoy. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold onto that delicious creamy sauce and chicken pieces.

Is this dish spicy?

The Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta strikes a great balance—it’s mostly sweet and savory, with a subtle peppery warmth from the cracked black pepper. If you prefer extra spice, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a simple adjustment for those with dietary needs.

What’s the best way to get a char-grilled flavor?

If you’re craving that charred panini-style texture, try grilling your chicken tenders instead of pan-searing. Slice and toss into the sauce as usual—the smoky flavor will amp up the Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta even more!

Can I make this vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap out the chicken for grilled or roasted veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. It’ll still deliver all the sweet, spicy, and creamy notes you love from the original.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about combining sweet and spicy, creamy and savory, all in one gorgeous bowl. The Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta brings together everything that’s fun and crave-worthy about classic comfort food, and it’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face at the table. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a new staple in your pasta lineup!

Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of honey pepper chicken in a creamy pasta form with this delightful Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta recipe. Tender chicken strips coated in a sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce are combined with al dente penne pasta for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz penne pasta

Chicken:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips

Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
Make Creamy Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet with the honey pepper sauce. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella until smooth. Add pasta and chicken, toss to coat, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.