Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines the comforting charm of Italian cooking with bold, sweet-savory flavors. This recipe captures the essence of a culinary journey, blending the harmonious balance of honey, garlic, and soy sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and easy preparation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Casual Family Dinner
• Elegant Plate Setup
• Meal Prep Containers
• Pair with a Salad
• How to Perfect Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Best Side Dishes for Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Reheating Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?
• Can I customize Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?
• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How spicy is Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy weekdays.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet-savory sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or switch out the protein for endless variations.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook once and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; this dish keeps well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth. Having the right equipment ensures efficiency and enjoyment while preparing your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and combining flavors in one pan.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing sauces without mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds

How to Make Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
Combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Pour this sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
Simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine

Add the cooked penne to the skillet with chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to serving plates. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy it warm!

How to Serve Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile in its presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve in large bowls for a cozy family meal. Add a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

Elegant Plate Setup

• Use a white plate to showcase the vibrant colors. Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for visual appeal.

Meal Prep Containers

• Pack individual portions into containers for easy lunch options throughout the week. Add a small side of sautéed vegetables for balance.

Pair with a Salad

• A fresh garden salad can complement the dish well. Consider a light vinaigrette to contrast the sweet flavors of the chicken.

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How to Perfect Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

To make your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Aim for juicy chicken by cooking it until just browned and no longer pink inside.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust honey according to your preference.
• Pasta Timing: Make sure your penne is cooked al dente; this texture will hold up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Garnish Generously: The green onions and sesame seeds not only add flavor but also enhance presentation.
• Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

Pairing your Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side complements any pasta dish and is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a deliciously simple side.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness to balance out the sticky sweetness of the chicken.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is an excellent alternative for those looking to skip pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking penne too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for the best texture.
• Ignoring the Chicken’s Temperature: Not cooking chicken to a safe internal temperature can lead to foodborne illness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Relying on stale garlic or old honey can dull flavors. Always use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Every ingredient varies in strength, so taste your sauce before adding all the soy sauce or honey. Adjust as needed for balance.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping green onions or sesame seeds misses out on added flavor and presentation. Always garnish for an appealing finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne:

What is Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne is a delicious pasta dish featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce served over penne pasta.

Can I customize Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, swap chicken for tofu, or adjust the spice level with more red pepper flakes.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne gluten-free, simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

How spicy is Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavors and customizable options, it makes for a delightful dinner that everyone will love. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with additional ingredients!