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Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta

  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta combines tender, golden chicken strips with creamy, al dente pasta coated in a luscious honey Dijon sauce. The sauce is rich yet balanced, featuring sweetness from honey, tanginess from Dijon mustard, and a touch of garlic for depth. Topped with fresh parsley and optionally Parmesan cheese, this dish feels decadent yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering, it’s sure to be a hit every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

  • Chicken Breasts: 2 large, sliced into strips (about 1.5 lbs)
  • Penne Pasta: 12 oz
  • Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
  • Salt & Black Pepper: To season chicken
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)

For the Honey Dijon Sauce

  • Honey: 1/4 cup
  • Dijon Mustard: 1/4 cup
  • Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
  • Butter: 2 tbsp
  • Paprika: 1/2 tsp
  • Salt & Black Pepper: To taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch
  • Lemon Zest: 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil.
    • Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes).
    • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat chicken strips dry and season with salt and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
    • Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
    • Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
    • Stir in honey, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
    • Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
    • Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Combine & Serve:
    • Return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce.
    • Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. Add pasta water if needed.
    • Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot. Optionally, top with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST

Find it online: https://avacheflife.com/sweet-tangy-honey-dijon-chicken-pasta/