Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta because it’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the coarse black pepper gives it just the right amount of kick. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and pasta, makes each bite feel indulgent yet comforting. It’s a fun twist on classic flavors, and whether I’m making it for a weeknight meal or serving it to friends, it’s always a hit.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add butter, red bell pepper, and red onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in chicken broth, honey, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes.

6. Reduce the heat to low, stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

7. Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

I love how customizable this recipe is! You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or even add some sausage for a different protein. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra heat. For a lighter option, you could use a lower-fat cream or even try a plant-based alternative to make it dairy-free. You could also add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to bulk it up and add extra color and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in short bursts or heat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. It also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like—penne, rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli all work well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan on hand, you can use cheddar, gouda, or any other melty cheese. You can even use a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes! You can easily add more veggies. Try adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the bell pepper and onion for extra flavor and nutrients. You can also toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or peas for variety.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, chop the veggies, and prepare the sauce components the day before. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble and heat everything up!

Can I freeze this dish?

While pasta dishes with cream-based sauces can sometimes become a little watery after freezing, this dish should still hold up well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Conclusion

This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a cozy, flavorful dish that combines the best of sweet and savory. The rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and zesty pepper make it a fun and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor that everyone in the family will love. Whether I’m serving it to guests or just enjoying a quiet night in, this dish always brings smiles to the table!