There’s something magical about the combination of sweet honey, bold black pepper, and savory chicken—and when you bring those flavors together in a creamy pasta dish inspired by the famous Panera Bread sandwich, you get a meal that’s nothing short of irresistible. The tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich honey pepper sauce make every bite an explosion of flavor.

I first made this dish on a whim after craving Panera’s Honey Pepper Chicken Panini but wanting something heartier. By mixing those classic flavors with pasta, I stumbled upon a new family favorite—one that’s now requested almost weekly! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with this sweet, spicy, and creamy pasta dish. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or just looking to try something new, this recipe checks all the boxes.

It’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

The flavor is next-level. The balance of sweet honey, warm black pepper, and creamy sauce makes for an unforgettable taste experience. It’s sweet, savory, and just a little spicy—perfection!

It’s a one-pan wonder. Aside from boiling the pasta, everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Less mess, more deliciousness!

It’s budget-friendly. No need to spend money on takeout—this dish uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it a great option for families or meal prepping.

If you love Panera’s Honey Pepper Chicken Panini, this pasta is going to be your new go-to comfort food.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta comes from a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Chicken breasts are the protein of choice here, offering a juicy, tender bite that soaks up all the delicious sauce. For extra flavor, use thinly sliced cutlets or pound the breasts to an even thickness before cooking.

Honey is the star of the sauce, providing a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the heat from the black pepper. Raw or clover honey works best, but if you like a deeper flavor, try using wildflower or orange blossom honey.

Coarse black pepper is essential for the signature kick in this dish. Freshly ground black pepper gives the best results, adding warmth and spice to balance the sweetness of the honey. If you love a little extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Heavy cream brings everything together, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half works as well, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Pasta acts as the perfect base for all the incredible flavors in this dish. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best because their ridges help trap the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet, a pasta pot, and a whisk to blend the sauce smoothly.

How To Make Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta

Making this flavor-packed pasta is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a Panera-inspired meal on your table in no time!

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Once done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. The starchy pasta water will help thicken the sauce later.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and let them rest before slicing into thin strips.

In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in honey and black pepper. Let it bubble for about a minute—this helps the flavors deepen and caramelize slightly. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Finally, add the sliced chicken, stirring everything together so the flavors meld beautifully.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra black pepper for an extra pop of flavor. This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta stores beautifully and makes for a fantastic meal the next day.

For the fridge, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but you can easily revive it when reheating.

For the freezer, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta over low heat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is! Here are a few fun variations to switch things up:

Swap the protein. Not a fan of chicken? This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Try a different pasta. While penne and rotini work great, you can also use fettuccine, farfalle, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Make it extra cheesy. Stir in parmesan, gouda, or even a touch of smoked cheddar for an extra layer of richness.

Add some veggies. Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would complement the sauce beautifully and add some extra nutrients.

Spice it up. For an extra kick, toss in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is forgiving and easily adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

This Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta is a must-try for any pasta lover. With its sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that brings comfort and bold flavors together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal-prepping for the week, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe over and over again.

So grab your ingredients, get that skillet sizzling, and enjoy a Panera-inspired masterpiece right at home!