There is something so irresistibly comforting about the Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe that makes it a lifelong favorite in my kitchen. This dish beautifully combines tender, golden chicken pieces glazed with a sticky, flavorful honey garlic sauce alongside perfectly roasted vegetables and al dente penne pasta. The colors, textures, and vibrant flavors come together in such a delightful harmony, making every bite a celebration. It’s a straightforward recipe that feels cozy yet classy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that bring out incredible flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role—from the sweet glaze to the roasted vegetables that add freshness and a hint of smokiness. Let’s break down the essentials so you can prepare quickly and cook confidently.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving.
- Honey: Adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory garlic and soy sauce perfectly.
- Soy sauce: Low sodium preferred, it brings umami depth without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to infuse that unmistakable aromatic punch into the sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and roasting vegetables, adding richness and preventing sticking.
- Red bell pepper: Contributes vibrant color and a sweet, crisp bite when roasted.
- Zucchini: Offers a tender texture with subtle earthiness, great for balancing the other bold flavors.
- Red onion: Roasted to bring out its natural sweetness and add a bit of caramelization.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved and roasted to burst with juicy, tangy sweetness.
- Penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to catch all the sauce and veggies in every mouthful.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance flavors throughout the dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A dash for those who like just a touch of heat.
- Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped for a fresh herbaceous finish and pop of green color.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes in 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with salt and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a large baking sheet. Roasting these veggies until tender and slightly charred brings out their natural sweetness and imparts a smoky complexity that perfectly complements the honey garlic chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta
While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Properly cooked pasta provides just the right firmness to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to marry with the chicken and veggies.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce and Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic to create your signature glaze. Then, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken, allowing it to simmer and thicken slightly for 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating that luscious coating that makes each chicken piece shine.
Step 4: Combine and Toss Everything Together
With the sauce ready and the veggies roasted, add both the vegetables and the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the chicken. Gently toss everything together, making sure every element is well coated in the flavorful honey garlic sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicy.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing this dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also introduces a fresh, herbaceous layer that brightens the rich flavor profile. A small sprinkle of grated Parmesan also works wonders if you want to add a savory, cheesy touch.
Side Dishes
This meal is so complete on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or warm crusty rolls makes it extra comforting and perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this dish in colorful bowls or deep plates that frame the golden chicken and roasted veggies beautifully. You can also garnish individual portions with a lemon wedge for an optional citrusy zing that some friends might adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later date, this dish freezes well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label it so you remember this delicious gem waiting for you.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave it covered, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat distribution. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of penne?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully to grab onto the honey garlic sauce, feel free to swap in fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand or your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply choose a gluten-free penne pasta, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well. This makes the dish accessible without compromising flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. For a vegetarian twist on this Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe, replace chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu. Toss them in the honey garlic sauce just like you would the chicken, and you’ll get the same sweet-savory goodness.
How spicy is this recipe?
The dish itself is mildly sweet and savory, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a gentle kick. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance perfectly.
What can I do with leftover roasted vegetables?
Leftover roasted veggies make fantastic additions to salads, omelets, or grain bowls. You can also blend them into a rustic soup or toss them with a bit more olive oil and herbs for a quick side on another night.
Final Thoughts
If you want a warm, inviting meal that feels like a home-cooked celebration, this Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to share with loved ones. Once you master the balance of sweet, savory, and fresh in this dish, it will quickly earn a spot in your dinner rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggie Penne is a flavorful and wholesome dinner option featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, paired with perfectly roasted vegetables and al dente penne pasta. It’s a vibrant, balanced meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Roasted Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for vegetables)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Roast Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a large baking sheet. Spread them out evenly and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender with slight charring.
- Cook Pasta: While the vegetables roast, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Make Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low sodium soy sauce, and minced garlic until smooth and combined.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Simmer Sauce with Chicken: Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken nicely.
- Combine All Ingredients: Add the roasted vegetables and cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so all the flavors meld. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta mixture warm and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your wholesome, flavorful honey garlic chicken penne!
Notes
- For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for similar protein and texture.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for enhanced flavor, if dairy is not a concern.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions.
