Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful fusion of crispy, honey-glazed chicken, creamy Alfredo pasta, and the smoky warmth of pepper and bacon. It’s a comforting meal with a balance of sweetness, spice, and richness—perfect for an indulgent dinner or a restaurant-style meal at home. The honey pepper glaze adds a unique touch, while the pasta and panini elements bring satisfying textures.

Ingredients

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

• ½ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 small red onion, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Pepper Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, black pepper, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Bring to a simmer and add the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts into strips or small fillets.
2. Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Coat the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, and fry until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until smooth.
4. Season with salt and black pepper, then add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Drizzle the crispy fried chicken with honey pepper sauce, coating evenly.
2. Serve over the creamy pasta.
3. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, and sliced red onion.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Variations and Substitutions

• Grilled Chicken Option: For a lighter version, grill the chicken instead of frying.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey pepper glaze.
• Different Pasta Choices: Use fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta for variety.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep the pasta creamy.
• Avoid microwaving the chicken to maintain crispiness; instead, reheat it in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What is Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta?

It’s a dish inspired by Applebee’s famous honey pepper chicken pasta, combining crispy chicken, creamy Alfredo pasta, and a sweet-spicy honey pepper glaze.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and pasta in advance, but for the best texture, fry the chicken just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this rich and flavorful dish.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, add a little more cornstarch slurry (mix of cornstarch and water) and simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce can be a quick substitute.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the red pepper flakes to make it spicier or omit them for a milder taste.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Boneless chicken is best for quick cooking, but you can use bone-in chicken and adjust the frying time accordingly.

What other cheeses work in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar, gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add more depth to the sauce.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use grilled chicken instead of fried, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and opt for whole wheat pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended because the creamy sauce can separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken separately and reheat it in the oven.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home with simple ingredients. The crispy chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and sweet-spicy honey glaze create a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

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