When you need a comforting meal that brings rich, savory flavors with just the right hint of sweetness, this One-Pot Creamy Honey Chicken & Sausage Pasta does not disappoint. It’s a hearty, indulgent dish where juicy chunks of chicken and seared sausage marry perfectly with creamy, honey-kissed sauce, all tossed with tender penne pasta. The sweetness from the honey balances the savory richness of the cheese and meat, making every bite deeply satisfying.

What makes this dish stand out is the simplicity of cooking everything in a single pot — no fuss, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving guests on a chilly evening, this pasta is sure to steal the spotlight with its creamy texture and bold, crave-worthy taste.

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Honey Chicken & Sausage Pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
8 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon honey
3 cups chicken broth
12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish

Step 1: Sear the Meats

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces first, seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is golden on all sides and cooked through — about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add the sliced sausage. Sear until lightly browned and slightly crispy around the edges, about 3-4 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the pot.

Step 2: Add Honey and Broth

Drizzle the tablespoon of honey over the meat, stirring to coat everything evenly. This adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sausage’s smoky notes. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot — this deglazing step enhances the overall flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12–14 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Most of the liquid should be absorbed at this stage.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and add the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes velvety and rich. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat, give everything one final stir, and garnish with freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of your One-Pot Creamy Honey Chicken & Sausage Pasta, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it thickens in the fridge.

Freezing is possible, but note that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop for best results.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings)

Calories: 620
Protein: 35g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 960mg

Please note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne holds up well in one-pot recipes, you can use rotini, rigatoni, or even fusilli as substitutes.

2. Is there a non-dairy option?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and opt for a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

4. What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked sausage or andouille works great. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

5. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers make excellent additions. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

6. Why did my sauce turn out too thick?

It may be due to overcooking or not enough liquid. Simply add a bit more broth or cream to adjust the consistency.

7. How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Add the cheese gradually while stirring constantly to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce.

8. Can I prep this meal in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sausage ahead of time. Store them separately and finish the pasta and sauce the day of serving for the best texture.