Easy Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe

 

The scent of honey pepper chicken pasta wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender chicken kissed by golden honey and a hint of peppery spice mingling with perfectly cooked pasta. Your taste buds are already dancing in anticipation, aren’t they?

I remember the first time I made this dish; my dog had his nose so close to the counter I was convinced he was trying to take notes. This meal has become our go-to for cozy dinners—it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in comfort food after a long day. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This honey pepper chicken pasta recipe is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor
  • The sweet-spicy balance keeps everyone coming back for seconds
  • The colorful presentation brightens any table setting, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or protein!

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was when I first served it at my housewarming party.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best; feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
  • Pasta of Choice: I recommend penne or fettuccine; their shapes hold the sauce beautifully.
  • Honey: Use pure honey for the best sweetness; it adds a beautiful glaze to the chicken.
  • Fresh Black Pepper: Freshly ground gives better flavor than pre-ground; use as much as you can handle!
  • Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only add crunch but also brighten up your dish—mix those colors!
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; it’s the aromatic base that brings everything together.
  • Olive Oil: A splash is necessary for sautéing; choose extra virgin for richer taste.
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning; use kosher salt for even distribution.
  • Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grate fresh cheese just before serving for that extra creamy touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely to release its wonderful aroma while cooking.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Peppers: Toss in minced garlic and chopped bell peppers into the skillet. Cook until peppers soften slightly and release their vibrant colors—about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Drizzle honey over the chicken mixture, stirring well to combine everything into a sticky yet savory glaze. Let it bubble gently for 1-2 minutes.

Toss It All Together!: Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until each piece of pasta is coated in that glorious honey-pepper sauce—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Now you have a delightful dish that combines sweet, savory flavors with tender chicken and hearty pasta! Serve it hot with optional Parmesan on top, if desired.

Enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week—trust me, once you try this honey pepper chicken pasta, you’ll be hooked!

You Must Know

  • Honey pepper chicken pasta is a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors
  • The textures of tender chicken and al dente pasta create a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners
  • Plus, it’s quick to whip up, ensuring you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the honey-pepper sauce. This method ensures both are ready simultaneously for a seamless meal.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor; it makes a noticeable difference in taste
  • Don’t overcook the pasta, as it should remain slightly firm to complement the sauce perfectly
  • Experiment with different pepper varieties to find your ideal heat level!

The first time I made honey pepper chicken pasta, my friends couldn’t believe I had whipped it up so quickly. Their compliments made me realize this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and pairs well with this dish.

What can I substitute if I don’t have honey?

Maple syrup works beautifully as a natural sweetener alternative.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for busy weeks.

Print
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Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that marries sweet honey and spicy pepper flavors with tender chicken and colorful veggies, all tossed with pasta for a comforting meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 1/4 cup pure honey
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Gather and chop all ingredients: dice the chicken, mince the garlic, and cut the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and chopped bell peppers; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until peppers soften.
  5. Drizzle honey over the chicken mixture, stirring to create a sticky glaze; let bubble for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken mixture until evenly coated in sauce. Serve hot with optional Parmesan cheese.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 66g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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