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
Scale
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.
