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Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta Recipe

4.4 from 80 reviews

Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender, spiced chicken with a delicious pasta base. The chicken breasts are marinated in a blend of honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, then coated and cooked to create a crispy yet juicy texture. This recipe brings an enticing balance of sweet, savory, and peppery notes, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade and Seasoning

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for optimal flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Chicken Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Main Protein

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, red chili flakes (if using), and garlic powder until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply.
  3. Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a lightly spicy and seasoned coating for the chicken.
  4. Coat the chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly.
  5. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or pan over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and slice.
  6. Prepare the pasta: While the chicken cooks, boil pasta of your choice according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  7. Assemble the panini pasta: Combine the cooked pasta with the sliced chicken in a pan. Optionally, sauté with a touch of olive oil and additional seasoning for enhanced flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor impact in the marinade and coating.
  • Choose chicken thighs for juicier results, or breasts for leaner meat.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red chili flakes or add fresh jalapeño slices during cooking.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Serve the pasta with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: Pepper Chicken, Panini Pasta, Spicy Chicken Pasta, Honey Soy Chicken, Skillet Chicken Pasta