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Honey pepper chicken panini pasta in white bowl with creamy sauce and glazed chicken pieces

Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

A delicious fusion of crispy pan-seared chicken with sweet-and-spicy honey pepper glaze tossed with creamy Parmesan pasta for a restaurant-quality weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • cup honey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce low-sodium recommended
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ 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
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers optional
  • ½ cup fresh spinach leaves optional
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Small saucepan
  • Large pasta pot
  • Colander
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, red chili flakes, and garlic powder. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer. Let it reduce for 3-5 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon and reduces by about one-third. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools. Set aside.
  2. Slice the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized cubes for even cooking. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add chicken in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when tested with a meat thermometer. Remove and set aside.
  4. While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  5. Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. If the sauce is bubbling vigorously, reduce heat to low. Gradually add Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece with the creamy sauce. Gently fold in the cooked chicken, then drizzle the honey pepper glaze over everything. Stir until evenly distributed and everything is heated through to 165°F.
  8. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness. Store leftovers in an airtight container at 40°F or below for up to 3 days and reheat gently to 165°F with a splash of cream or broth. Pro tip: Start pasta water while chicken cooks to save time.