Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta

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There’s a reason this Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta wins hearts at first bite. The juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast is pan-seared until golden, then glazed in a vibrant blend of honey and Dijon mustard. This mix of sweet and sharp gives the chicken an irresistible caramelized crust that pairs beautifully with every bite of al dente pasta.

The dish is a weeknight dream come true—quick to whip up, yet so rich in flavor it feels like something you’d order at your favorite bistro. It’s comfort food with a zing: the warmth of garlic and herbs, the brightness of mustard, the silky sweetness of honey—all tied together with the chewy satisfaction of penne pasta. Whether you’re feeding family or just looking to spoil yourself, this recipe will leave your tastebuds asking for more.

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Ingredients for Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups cooked penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for umami depth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. You can toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Prepare the Honey Dijon Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a small drizzle of oil if the pan is dry. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the Dijon mustard, honey, and soy sauce (if using), stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.

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Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated. Then, add the cooked penne pasta and stir gently until everything is evenly combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water or chicken broth to loosen it.

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Step 5: Final Touches

Add the butter for extra silkiness and stir until melted through. Finish by sprinkling with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, with an optional grating of Parmesan cheese on top.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of Sweet & Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken & Pasta, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fat: ~18g
• Saturated Fat: ~4g
• Sugar: ~12g
• Sodium: ~600mg
• Fiber: ~2g

Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti work well too. Choose pasta with ridges or spirals for better sauce adherence.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give a juicier, richer flavor and work wonderfully in this dish.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can leave them out for a milder version or add more if you like heat.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Simply skip the butter at the end or use a plant-based butter alternative.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

You can stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt at the end for added creaminess.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids enjoy the mild sweetness from the honey. Just omit the red pepper flakes for younger palates.

What sides go well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables make great companions. Garlic bread is also a popular choice.

Can I meal prep this?

Definitely. It stores and reheats well, making it perfect for weekday lunches or dinner prep.

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