Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Spicy Flavor: The honey and black pepper glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, enhancing the taste of the chicken.
- Creamy Texture: The pasta is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that complements the grilled chicken beautifully.
- Unique Twist: Incorporating the concept of a panini adds a delightful crispiness to the chicken, offering a contrast in textures.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this dish is simple to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Honey Pepper Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken on both sides for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey pepper sauce over it, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, turning the chicken to coat it evenly in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. Slice into strips.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing it to simmer for about 3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Add the sliced honey pepper chicken on top and toss gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or feta for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne or fusilli work well, but spaghetti or fettuccine are also great options.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared in advance for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein to make it vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more black pepper or include a pinch of red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a delightful fusion dish that combines the sweet and spicy flavors of honey and black pepper with tender grilled chicken and creamy pasta. This unique recipe offers a comforting meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply enjoy a delicious meal, this dish is sure to impress.
