Introduction to Honey Crack Chicken Penne
If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering dinner recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy, look no further than Honey Crack Chicken Penne. This dish has quickly become a household favorite, loved for its irresistible combination of tender chicken, rich pasta, and a glaze that’s equal parts tangy and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about making the best Honey Crack Chicken Penne — from the ingredients you’ll need to pro tips for nailing the recipe every time.
The Perfect Combination of Sweet, Savory, and Cheesy
What sets Honey Crack Chicken Penne apart from other pasta dishes? It’s all about the flavor trifecta. The honey brings a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory seasoning on the chicken. Combine this with a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every piece of penne, and you’ve got a recipe that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
This dish is perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Potlucks and gatherings
- Meal prepping for busy weeks
Ingredients Breakdown: What You Need to Make This Dish
Let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
For the Honey Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Ready to create magic in the kitchen? Follow these steps to bring this dish to life:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, then dip them into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them with breadcrumbs.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Honey Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet used for frying the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Stir in the fried chicken and drizzle the honey sauce over the top. Toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Nailing the Recipe Every Time
- Choose the Right Pasta: Penne works beautifully for this dish because its tubular shape holds the sauce well, but you can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli if needed.
- Double-Coat the Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, repeat the breading process twice before frying.
- Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Make it Spicy: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties for a smoother sauce.
Serving Suggestions: How to Elevate the Presentation
- Plate the Honey Crack Chicken Penne in a large serving dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- For a fancy touch, drizzle a little extra honey sauce on the plate before serving.
Storing and Reheating: Keeping the Dish Fresh
Storing:
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken less crispy.
Healthier Alternatives and Modifications
- Lighter Sauce: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and seasonings.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or roasted vegetables.
Pairing Ideas: What Goes Well with Honey Crack Chicken Penne
This dish pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. Some ideas include:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
Popular Questions Answered (FAQ Section)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and combine them just before serving.
2. Can I freeze Honey Crack Chicken Penne?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months.
3. What other pasta shapes can I use?
Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle are great alternatives.
4. How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey or add more soy sauce to balance the flavors.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why This Recipe is Loved by All: Real-Life Reviews
Many people rave about Honey Crack Chicken Penne because of its simplicity and big flavors. From busy parents to foodies, this recipe hits all the right notes. One reader said, “This has become a weekly staple in our house—the combination of flavors is out of this world!”
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
There’s no denying that Honey Crack Chicken Penne is a game-changer. With its irresistible combination of crispy chicken, creamy pasta, and sweet-savory honey sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a comforting family dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and discover why it’s become a fan favorite. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Best Honey Crack Chicken Penne: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Discover the best Honey Crack Chicken Penne recipe! Sweet, savory, and creamy comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
For the Honey Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Combine flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken in the flour mixture, dip in eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry chicken in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the Honey Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sriracha.
- Bring to a simmer and add the cornstarch slurry. Stir until thickened.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In the skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy.
- Combine Everything:
- Toss the pasta in the cheese sauce until coated.
- Add fried chicken and drizzle with honey sauce. Gently mix to combine.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Crispy Chicken: For extra crunch, double-coat the chicken in the flour and breadcrumbs.
- Less Sweet: Reduce honey by 1-2 tablespoons for a less sweet dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or red pepper flakes to the honey sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
- Meal Prep: Store components separately for easy reheating and assembly later.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 25minutes