Name: Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: For the pasta:; 1 cup dry orzo pasta (or pasta of your choice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken sausage (spicy or mild); 1 ½ cups broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is an easy and delicious dish that combines the sweet richness of honey with the bold, savory taste of soy sauce and black pepper. This quick-to-make meal delivers juicy chicken, tender pasta, and crisp bell peppers, making it a fantastic option for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory or you’re craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with the honey bringing a rich sweetness and the black pepper giving just the right amount of heat. The addition of soy sauce gives it a delicious umami flavor, making the dish deeply satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s highly customizable with your favorite pasta and add-ins.

Ingredients

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
¼ cup pure honey
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: chili flakes for extra heat
Green onions for garnish

Tip: You can find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the peppers are slightly tender.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Stir in the honey and soy sauce, then let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back into the skillet. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, making sure it’s well-coated with the sweet and spicy sauce. If you like some extra heat, sprinkle in the optional chili flakes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and color. Enjoy!

Variations

Use a different protein: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef if you prefer.
Add extra vegetables: To make it more veggie-packed, add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet.
Spicy variation: If you like a bit more spice, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
Gluten-free option: You can use gluten-free pasta and tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.

Heating and Storage

Storage: Store any leftover Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Penne, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta would work great in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from the black pepper and optional chili flakes. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more chili flakes or some hot sauce.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the chicken, sauce, and vegetables in advance, then combine everything right before serving.

5. Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, but the dish will be saltier. Adjust the amount of salt you use to taste.

6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

7. What if I don’t have fettuccine pasta?

No worries! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni.

8. Can I use honey substitutes?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, although it may slightly alter the flavor.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta for up to a month. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta goes well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make meal that combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The juicy chicken, tender pasta, and flavorful sauce come together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. With endless variations, you can easily tailor this dish to your preferences. Serve it up for a satisfying, tasty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite