Easy Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious honey-pepper cream sauce. With a balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, this recipe makes for a comforting yet elegant meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy: On the table in under 30 minutes.

• Balanced flavors: Sweet honey pairs beautifully with peppery heat.

• Restaurant-quality at home: Elegant enough for dinner guests, yet simple for weeknights.

• Customizable: Swap proteins, pasta types, or adjust spice to your taste.

• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserving ½ cup pasta water before draining. Set aside.

2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest 5 minutes, then slice.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in honey and black pepper.

4. Mix in Parmesan until melted. Toss in pasta and chicken, adding reserved pasta water if needed to thin sauce.

5. Garnish with parsley and extra pepper. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken.

• Try fettuccine, rotini, or spaghetti instead of penne.

• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.

• Reduce black pepper for milder heat, or add red pepper flakes for more spice.

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid over-microwaving to prevent drying out.
For longer storage, freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken in advance. Store separately and combine with the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne holds the sauce well, but rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine are also excellent choices.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it at the end to warm through.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, it has a gentle peppery kick. You can reduce or increase the black pepper to suit your taste.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. For a creamier result, use half-and-half or add a cornstarch slurry.

What cheese can replace Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago make good substitutes if you want a sharper flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and confirm that your cheese and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese, and stir gently until smooth.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, easily double the ingredients to serve a larger group. Use a larger skillet to ensure even cooking.

What side dishes go well with this pasta?

A green salad, Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the creamy flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a satisfying blend of creamy, sweet, and peppery flavors that feels indulgent yet approachable. With simple steps and pantry ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy pasta dish in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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