Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne is a dish that promises to delight your taste buds with its perfect blend of sweet and spicy. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings. With the heartiness of penne pasta and the bold flavors of honey and pepper jack cheese, it’s a meal that stands out for its comforting yet exciting profile.

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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 Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
• Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
• Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce Ingredients
• Step 4: Mix in Pasta and Cheese
• Step 5: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Family Style
• With Fresh Salad
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• With Garlic Bread
• How to Perfect Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Best Side Dishes for Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Reheating Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different pasta shapes?
• How spicy is Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne?
• Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
• What should I serve with this dish?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Done in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and pepper jack cheese creates a unique sweet and spicy experience.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for both casual meals and special occasions; everyone will love it!
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adjust spice levels or substitute proteins to fit your preferences.
• Great Leftovers: Perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for combining ingredients evenly while allowing the sauce to thicken perfectly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your penne pasta cooks evenly and has the right texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help you get precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste

For Garnish

• Chopped green onions

How to Make Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

In a large skillet over medium heat:
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil.
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken to the skillet:
Stir in 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup chicken broth, and season with 1 tsp black pepper and optional 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Mix in Pasta and Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened:
Add the cooked penne pasta.
Stir in 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese.
Mix until the cheese melts completely and coats all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne warm. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra touch. Enjoy this delightful dish!

How to Serve Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken penne in a large bowl or platter for a communal meal. This encourages sharing and adds a cozy touch to family gatherings.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette can complement the sweetness of the honey, balancing flavors beautifully.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional pepper jack cheese on top before serving. This creates a melty, gooey topping that enhances flavor and texture.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil as a garnish. This not only adds color but also freshness that brightens the dish.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread. This is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a crunchy texture to your meal.

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How to Perfect Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Creating the perfect Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne requires attention to detail and some cooking tips. These suggestions will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality chicken and fresh spices for the best flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your penne is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Let Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough so it thickens before mixing in pasta for better coating.
• Reheat Gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently over low heat to prevent drying out or burning.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal and taste. Here are some great options that pair well with Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the main dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy balance to the richness of the penne.
3. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast against the sweet and spicy chicken.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and nutrition, balancing flavors without overpowering them.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil serves as a flavorful appetizer before diving into your pasta.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can provide a textural contrast while adding freshness to each bite of chicken penne.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers an easy-to-make side that complements the sweetness in the dish.
8. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers are simple yet delightful appetizers that bring brightness to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring pasta cooking instructions: Always follow the package instructions for the penne pasta. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up well in the dish.

• Not adjusting sauce thickness: If your sauce seems too runny, allow it to cook longer before adding the pasta. Adjusting the cooking time can enhance flavor and texture.

• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality pepper jack cheese. A better cheese melts more smoothly and enhances the dish’s overall taste.

• Neglecting seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook. Adding salt and pepper gradually helps achieve a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Skipping garnishes: Serve with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Garnishes not only add color but also enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Separate into portions to make reheating easier later.

Reheating Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth while stirring until warmed completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While penne is great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or rigatoni.

How spicy is Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne?

The spice level depends on the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and pepper jack cheese used. Adjust these ingredients according to your heat preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option while keeping the same flavors.

What should I serve with this dish?

Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except for combining the pasta with the sauce. Store separately in the fridge and combine them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Honey Pepper Jack Chicken Penne is an exciting blend of flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; you’ll be delighted by its comforting yet bold taste!