This Sticky Garlic Honey Chicken Penne is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in a rich, glossy honey garlic sauce, then tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The result is a satisfying meal with a beautiful combination of textures—juicy chicken, silky sauce, and firm pasta—all coming together in every bite. It’s an ideal option for a quick dinner that still feels special and homemade.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Generously season the water with salt, which helps enhance the flavor of the pasta itself. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture—tender but still slightly firm when bitten. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the chicken pieces in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Season them with salt and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a light golden color, then stir and continue cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes in total, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside. The goal is to achieve tender, juicy pieces with a slightly crisp exterior.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a subtle heat. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Pour this sauce directly over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer gently for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly and develop a glossy, sticky consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss everything together carefully to ensure that each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the sticky honey garlic sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two so the pasta can absorb some of the sauce and fully integrate with the chicken.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish. Sprinkle freshly sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and a touch of texture. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the dish at its best, when the sauce is glossy and the flavors are at their peak.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides that balance its rich and slightly sweet flavor. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast, while steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach complement the savory elements of the sauce. You can also serve it on its own as a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat and add a small splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently until heated through, restoring the dish’s original texture and flavor.