One Pan Zesty Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine

Looking for a dinner that’s simple, zesty, and packed with flavor? One Pan Zesty Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine is just what you need!

This dish combines juicy chicken, a tangy honey garlic sauce, and smooth fettuccine, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.

Imagine tender chicken coated in a sweet, savory sauce, perfectly balanced with creamy fettuccine in every bite. It’s comfort food with a kick!

Let’s get started and create this delicious one-pan meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pan = Less Mess: Everything cooks in a single skillet—pasta, sauce, and chicken.
• Balanced Flavors: Honey brings sweetness, garlic adds depth, soy sauce gives that umami kick.
• Weeknight Hero: It’s easy to make, satisfying, and only takes about an hour start to finish.
• Kid-Friendly and Grown-Up Approved: Sweet, savory, and not too spicy (unless you want it to be).

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings: Serves 4–6 people comfortably, depending on portion size.

Difficulty: Easy—basic knife skills and stovetop cooking are all you need.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this one-pan pasta come together.

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta, uncooked

For the Sauce

• ½ cup honey – adds natural sweetness
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce – provides depth and saltiness
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – for rich, savory flavor
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle heat
• 3 cups chicken broth – to cook the pasta and carry the sauce

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – to sear the chicken and coat the pan
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, sliced – adds freshness and a light onion flavor

Variations for Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine

• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, broccoli, or snap peas at the end.
• Go Creamy: Mix in ¼ cup of heavy cream to make it richer.
• Use Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
• Swap Pasta: Penne or linguine also work well if fettuccine isn’t available.
• Turn Up the Heat: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.

How to Make It: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

2. Make the Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting it bubble slightly.

3. Add Pasta and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a light boil. Add the uncooked fettuccine to the pan, pressing it gently so it’s mostly submerged. Cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick.

4. Combine Chicken and Pasta

Once the pasta is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid, return the chicken to the pan. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the pasta and coated in the sauce. Let it cook together for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.

5. Check for Consistency

If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it uncovered for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the pasta for a fresh, mild onion flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey. Serve it right from the pan, hot and fresh.

How to Serve Zesty Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine

This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, but it’s also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Here’s how to make it even better:

• Pair with a Side Salad: A crisp, simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette works perfectly to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Top with Grated Parmesan: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a sharp, salty finish.
• Add Extra Spice: If you like it spicier, serve with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweetness and savory notes of the dish.

Storing Zesty Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine

• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may change once reheated. To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to check the pasta frequently during the simmering process. You want it al dente, not mushy.
• Searing the Chicken: For extra flavor, sear the chicken on all sides for a nice golden brown crust before adding the sauce.
• Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you’re watching sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
• Taste as You Go: The honey and soy sauce balance each other well, but always taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Here’s the breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving of this delicious dish:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	56g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	18g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	600mg
Potassium	450mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, linguine, or spaghetti will work just fine if you prefer something other than fettuccine.

What can I substitute for honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Keep in mind it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare it in advance and reheat it the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat with a little extra broth to keep the pasta from drying out.

Conclusion

This One Pan Zesty Honey Garlic Chicken Fettuccine is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights. It’s quick, flavorful, and easy to clean up afterward. You get the perfect balance of sweet and savory with every bite. Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite.