Honey Pepper Chicken Panini Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
02 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1 large egg, beaten
08 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
09 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying

→ For the Honey Pepper Sauce

10 - 1/2 cup honey
11 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
13 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
15 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

→ For the Pasta

16 - 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
17 - 2 tablespoons butter
18 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
19 - 1 cup heavy cream
20 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
21 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
22 - Salt and black pepper to taste
23 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining
02 - Slice chicken breasts thin, dredge in seasoned flour, egg, then panko. Fry in oil until golden and cooked through (165°F)
03 - Simmer honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and peppers. Add butter and stir until glossy
04 - Sauté garlic in butter, add cream and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened
05 - Toss pasta in cream sauce. Top with sliced chicken, drizzle with honey sauce, add mozzarella and broil until melted
06 - Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot

# Notes:

01 - Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed
02 - Chicken can be sliced ahead for easier cooking