Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (butterflied and halved)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter (for pan-frying)
For the Honey Pepper Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare & Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Dredge each piece in flour, then dip into beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat, then pan-fry the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from pan and let rest before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, black pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, and butter.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Pasta Sauce
- In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, black pepper, and salt, stirring to combine.
- Mix in cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
- Slice crispy chicken and drizzle with honey pepper glaze.
- Place chicken on top of the creamy pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
🍞 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A light contrast to the rich flavors.
🌶 Extra Heat? – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.