Introduction

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that comes together in a creamy, glossy sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting yet special. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta make every bite satisfying.

The image shows a white plate filled with spiral rotini pasta coated in a light, oily sauce with small red chili pieces and sprinkled green herbs spread throughout. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken, with a slightly charred texture and a shiny glaze, also garnished with finely chopped green herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled textured surface, and the overall look is warm and appetizing with a close-up view emphasizing the texture and color contrast between the pasta and chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g)

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

3 tablespoons honey (raw, local preferred)

2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt to taste

A handful fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, then set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the honey, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, letting the mixture bubble for a minute while stirring.

Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the honey pepper sauce. Add the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the glossy sauce.

Step 5: Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish, and toss gently. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with penne, fusilli, or any short pasta shape that holds sauce nicely. Spaghetti or linguine can also be used if you prefer.

Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Reserving pasta water helps loosen the sauce and ensures it coats the pasta evenly. The starchy water adds a silky texture, so it’s recommended for best results.