Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

A delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a dish that perfectly balances tender chicken, a rich honey pepper sauce, and al dente pasta. This recipe is a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness of honey and the kick of black pepper create an irresistible combination.
• Simple and Quick – Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Versatile – You can swap out ingredients to match your preferences.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress your family with this gourmet dish.
• Great for Leftovers – Reheats well, making it a convenient meal prep option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Honey
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Cooked penne pasta
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Panini bread, toasted and cut into strips

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken – Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Cook the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce – In the same pan, melt butter, then add honey, crushed red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
4. Add the Cream and Cheese – Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan, mixing until smooth and thickened.
5. Combine with Pasta – Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
6. Slice the Chicken – Cut the cooked chicken into strips and place it on top of the pasta.
7. Prepare the Panini Bread – Toast the panini bread and slice it into strips.
8. Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap the Protein – Try using shrimp or grilled tofu instead of chicken.
• Add Vegetables – Include bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Pasta – Works well with fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Spice Level – Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.
• Cheese Options – Substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to retain the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

How spicy is honey pepper chicken panini pasta?

The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust the red pepper flakes to make it milder or hotter.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and store them separately. Combine with pasta when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal, but fettuccine, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta will work well.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds convenience.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Make sure to stir continuously and avoid high heat when adding cream and cheese.

Can I use honey mustard instead of honey?

Yes, honey mustard will add a tangy flavor variation that works well with the dish.

What’s the best way to toast the panini bread?

Use a grill pan, oven, or panini press to achieve a crispy texture.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that brings together sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With easy variations and storage options, it’s a versatile recipe that can fit any lifestyle. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home!

Print