Best Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of sweet honey, bold black pepper, and savory chicken, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta dish. This recipe takes inspiration from the famous Applebee’s Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese but adds a homemade touch that makes it even better.

this Recipe

I first experimented with this dish after craving that perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. With crispy chicken, a luscious sauce, and tender pasta, this meal quickly became a family favorite. If you're looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that’s easy to make at home, this is it!

Why You'll Love This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that checks all the boxes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this pasta delivers in every way.

First, the sweet and spicy honey pepper sauce is simply irresistible. It balances warmth from black pepper with a touch of sweetness, coating every bite in a rich, flavorful glaze.

The crispy chicken takes this dish to the next level. Lightly breaded and pan-fried to golden perfection, the juicy chicken adds the perfect crunch against the creamy pasta.

It’s also a quick and easy meal. While it tastes like something that took hours to prepare, this recipe comes together in under an hour—perfect for when you're short on time but still want a satisfying, homemade meal.

Lastly, it’s versatile and customizable. You can switch up the pasta, adjust the spice level, or even swap the protein to fit your personal preferences. This dish is all about making it your own!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes each component shine.

Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for a crispy texture and juicy bite. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used for an even richer flavor.

Honey – The star of the sauce, honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the bold black pepper. Opt for raw honey if possible, as it has a more robust taste.

Black Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper is key to getting the perfect heat level. It cuts through the sweetness of the honey and enhances the overall depth of flavor.

Pasta – Penne or rigatoni are excellent choices because their ridges hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand.

Heavy Cream – This creates the rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, though the sauce will be thinner.

A large skillet, a saucepan, and a baking sheet are all the equipment you’ll need to bring this dish together effortlessly.

How To Make This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering pasta is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bring restaurant-quality flavor into your home kitchen.

Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets and season them with salt and black pepper. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour and a pinch of paprika for added flavor. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

To make the honey pepper sauce, reduce the heat to medium-low and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in honey, black pepper, and a splash of chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for a minute, then return the chicken to the pan, tossing it to coat in the sauce.

For the creamy pasta sauce, in a separate saucepan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finally, assemble the dish by tossing the pasta in the creamy sauce, then topping it with the honey pepper chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a finishing touch.

This dish comes together in about 40 minutes and delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish stores and reheats beautifully.

For refrigeration, transfer the pasta and chicken to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

To freeze, store the pasta and chicken separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For best results when reheating, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth as needed. The chicken can be reheated in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.

Variations and Substitutions

This honey pepper chicken panini pasta is incredibly flexible, allowing you to switch up ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences.

Switch up the protein – Instead of chicken, try shrimp, tofu, or even crispy cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.

Adjust the heat level – If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey pepper sauce for an extra kick.

Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative when coating the chicken.

Try different cheeses – While Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor, you can experiment with Gouda or white cheddar for a unique twist.

Use a different sweetener – If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as a substitute while still delivering that signature sweetness.

This recipe is all about making it your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor it to your personal taste!

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to bring this delicious honey pepper chicken panini pasta to life. Enjoy every bite of its sweet, spicy, creamy goodness!

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