Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta! Seriously, this dish is a game-changer. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and al dente pasta all swimming in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. I remember the first time I made it—it was one of those nights when I needed something quick yet delicious, and this beauty did not disappoint! The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so clean-up is a breeze. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too! The combination of flavors is just divine, and I promise, your family will love it as much as mine does.
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta! Make sure to prep them as noted for the best results:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup pasta
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare One Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta! It’s super simple and so satisfying. Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a delicious dinner in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, grab a large pot—something around 5 to 6 quarts works beautifully here. Heat about a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. You want it just hot enough that it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This will ensure that your chicken gets that lovely golden color when we add it in!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now, toss in your diced chicken breast and season it generously with salt and pepper. I usually like to let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning it occasionally until it’s browned all over. You want that nice, golden color because it adds so much flavor to the dish. Don’t rush this step; it’s all about building that delicious base!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your chicken is beautifully browned, it’s time to add the minced garlic! This is where the magic really starts to happen. Stir it in and let it sauté for only about a minute—just until you can smell that amazing garlic aroma. Be careful not to overcook it; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s bring it all together! Pour in the honey and soy sauce, stirring to coat the chicken in that sweet and savory goodness. Then add your rice and pasta—yes, both! It’s a fun combo that makes this dish unique. Finally, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Make sure the rice and pasta are submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Step 5: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where all the flavors meld together, and the rice and pasta soak up that delicious sauce. Just be sure to check on it halfway through to give it a gentle stir!
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for a couple of minutes. Then, uncover and grab a fork to fluff everything up! It should be all nice and tender. Serve it hot, and enjoy the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen. I love to sprinkle a little extra pepper on top for a kick—feel free to get creative with garnishes!
Tips for Success
Now that you know how to make one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta, here are some of my top tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more honey. Just taste as you go! You can always add, but you can’t take away, right?
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color! Just toss them in with the chicken so they cook perfectly.
- Check Liquid Levels: If it looks too dry while simmering, add a splash more chicken broth or water. You want everything to cook evenly and stay moist!
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before fluffing. This helps the flavors settle and makes for a tastier meal!
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to throw in some red pepper flakes or a dash of ginger for an extra kick. It can really elevate the dish!
- Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftovers, they make a fantastic filling for wraps or a topping for salads. Get creative, and enjoy it all over again!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta is not only delicious but also packs a satisfying nutritional punch. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values per serving, so you know exactly what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind, these are just estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. But hey, knowing you’re getting a good mix of protein, carbs, and flavor makes it all the more enjoyable, right? Enjoy your meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! If chicken isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster. Aim for a similar size to ensure everything cooks evenly. You want that delicious honey garlic sauce to coat your protein perfectly, no matter what you choose!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re like me and love a little heat, there are plenty of ways to spice things up! You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when you stir in the honey and soy sauce. Another great option is to toss in some diced jalapeños or even a bit of sriracha. Just remember to start small and taste as you go—you can always add more, but it’s tough to tone it down if it gets too fiery!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can totally prepare this dish in advance! I often make a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for meal prep! Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy. If you want to freeze it, I recommend doing so without the pasta, as it can get mushy when thawed. Just add fresh pasta when you reheat it, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just a 10-minute prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 40 minutes!
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in one pot, making clean-up a total breeze—less time scrubbing, more time enjoying!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it the perfect addition to any family meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness to suit your family’s taste!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious one pot sassy honey garlic chicken rice pasta, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even more! Here are a few ideas to complement this dish:
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots adds a pop of color and extra nutrition. They’re light and fresh, balancing the richness of the honey garlic sauce.
- Crispy Salad: Serve a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and pasta, making each bite delightful!
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, some warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks would be a perfect match. It’s a great way to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate!
- Rice Paper Rolls: For a fun twist, try pairing it with fresh rice paper rolls filled with veggies and herbs. They’re light, refreshing, and can add a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Chilled White Wine: To drink, a nice chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully. It’s a lovely way to unwind while enjoying your dinner!
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or what you have on hand, and enjoy every bite of your delicious meal! Trust me, these pairings will take your dining experience to the next level!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
And if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of garlic, visit Healthline for detailed information.
Print
One Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Pasta Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This dish combines chicken, rice, and pasta in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup pasta
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice, pasta, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer for 20 minutes or until rice and pasta are cooked.
- Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust honey for desired sweetness.
- Add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot, chicken, rice, pasta, honey garlic