If you are craving a dish that beautifully balances sweet and tangy flavors while offering comforting, hearty satisfaction, the Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This irresistible combination of tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious honey Dijon sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, creates a memorable meal that feels both special and effortlessly simple. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe hits the perfect note of flavor, texture, and ease in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen, ensuring every element adds to the overall harmony of the Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe. From fragrant spices to the sweet punch of honey and the creamy tang of Dijon mustard, each component plays a key role in making this dish sing.
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized chunks: Using chicken breasts ensures tender, juicy protein that cooks quickly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing your chicken to a beautiful golden brown without overpowering flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making each bite more satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth to the seasoning on the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds both color and a hint of smoky earthiness.
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to catch every bit of the delicious sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: The star ingredient that delivers that signature tangy bite that pairs wonderfully with honey.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Provides natural sweetness, balancing the sharpness of the mustard.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): Adds a depth of umami to round out the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh and fragrant, boosting the overall aroma and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a tiny hint of heat to contrast the sweet and tangy flavors.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): Adds richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil (optional): Brightens the plate with its herbal freshness and vibrant color.
How to Make Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta until al dente, meaning it should be tender yet still have a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside—this step lays the foundation for your dish’s texture and helps the pasta soak up that amazing sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple seasoning blend adds layers of flavor that perfectly complement the tanginess of the Dijon mustard and sweetness of honey.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside, which usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. Browning the chicken well adds incredible texture and flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Dijon Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then stir in Dijon mustard, honey, and soy sauce if using. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luscious coating for the chicken and pasta.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and toss to coat every piece with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together until well combined. This step ensures the pasta absorbs the lovely sauce while chicken pieces remain tender and flavorful.
Step 6: Add Butter for Extra Creaminess
If you want to elevate the sauce further, stir in a tablespoon of butter now. It melts into the sauce, lending it a silky, rich finish that makes the dish downright irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top your Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a delightful herbaceous note. Now your dish is ready to be savored!
How to Serve Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are the perfect finishing touch, brightening your plate visually and adding a fresh, clean flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet and tangy sauce. Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you want to spice things up.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans to provide a refreshing crunch and balance the richness of the chicken and pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs wonderfully, helping scoop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, try plating the pasta in shallow bowls with the chicken delicately arranged on top. Garnish with a wedge of lemon to squeeze over the top for an added zing. You could even serve the dish in mini skillet pans for a rustic, charming presentation that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a delicious next-day meal or lunch option.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but for best quality, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up and restore that velvety consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended because of its ability to hold sauce wonderfully, you can swap it for fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on your preference.
Is soy sauce necessary in the recipe?
Soy sauce is optional but highly recommended if you want to enhance the umami depth in your sauce. If you prefer to keep the sauce lighter or are avoiding soy, it works well without it too.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper in this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle, gentle heat that balances the sweetness and tanginess but won’t overpower the dish. You can easily omit or adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Also, check that your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari as an alternative.
What can I use instead of chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs are a tasty alternative and offer a bit more juiciness. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s packed with delicious flavors, quick to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a luscious honey Dijon sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The combination of honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of soy sauce creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, complemented by garlic and warming spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy meal that brings both comfort and elegance to your table.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Pasta & Sauce
- 2 cups cooked penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to evenly coat the chicken with the seasoning blend.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the Dijon mustard, honey, and soy sauce (if using), mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Optionally, add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the honey Dijon sauce to coat the pieces thoroughly.
- Add Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir everything together so the pasta is well coated in the sauce with the chicken.
- Finish Creamy Touch: Stir in butter if using, allowing it to melt into the sauce for extra richness and creaminess.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the dish and serve warm for a deliciously balanced meal.
Notes
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with boneless thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the amount of honey depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- Soy sauce is optional but adds a nice umami depth; substitute with tamari for gluten-free option.
- Adding crushed red pepper flakes gives a slight kick; omit if you prefer mild flavors.
- Butter enhances creaminess but can be skipped for a lighter dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten the dish with a fresh aroma and flavor.
