Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta
There’s something about the perfect marriage of sweet and tangy that makes Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta an absolute weeknight winner. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious honey mustard sauce, paired with bowtie pasta that holds onto every bit of flavor. With the addition of vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, it’s not only packed with taste but also bursting with color and nutrition. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner or a comforting meal to impress guests, this recipe hits all the right notes without any fuss.
The Upside of Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta is the kind of meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The honey mustard sauce strikes a beautiful balance—sweetness from the honey complements the sharp bite of Dijon mustard, enhanced by subtle garlic and onion powder. Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is ideal because its shape traps the sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Plus, adding fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes not only boosts the dish’s nutritional value but also adds freshness and texture. This recipe is a complete meal in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
The Ingredient Lineup
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Large pot for boiling pasta – essential for perfectly cooked bowties
- Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook chicken and toss everything together
- Mixing bowl – to whisk together the honey mustard sauce
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for prepping chicken and veggies
- Colander – for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and combining ingredients
Cook Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta Like This
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set this sweet and tangy sauce aside while you cook the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as they cook. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the cooked bowtie pasta, chicken, and the honey mustard sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Add Fresh Veggies
Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts slightly and the tomatoes are warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious bowl of Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta!
How to Make It Lighter
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free bowtie pasta to add fiber and nutrients.
- Swap olive oil for a light cooking spray to reduce added fats.
- Increase the amount of fresh spinach and tomatoes for extra volume and nutrients with fewer calories.
- Use chicken breast without skin and trim any visible fat for a leaner protein option.
- Reduce honey slightly if you want to cut back on sugar content.
Pro Perspective
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating your chicken briefly in half of the honey mustard sauce before cooking. This infuses the meat with even more sweetness and tang. When stirring in the sauce, always adjust seasoning at the end—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper balances the flavors perfectly. Bowtie pasta is not only aesthetically pleasing but its ridges are great for holding onto sauces, making it a superior choice for this dish.
Looking to elevate this meal? Serve it alongside a simple green salad or crispy roasted vegetables. This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
How to Store & Reheat
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender and the pasta from becoming mushy.
Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for this recipe due to its shape and texture, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu cubes. Pan-fry the tofu or roast chickpeas for added texture before tossing them in the honey mustard sauce along with the pasta and veggies.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the chicken and pasta. However, you can prep the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine everything just before serving. This helps save time without compromising flavor.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies! Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would all complement the honey mustard sauce beautifully. Just add them in step 5 and cook until tender.
More from the Kitchen
- Maple Mustard Chicken With Pickled Peaches – Another sweet and tangy chicken dish with a twist.
- Creamy Chicken Poblano Pasta – A creamy, comforting pasta recipe with a smoky kick.
Bring It Home
Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors wrapped up in a simple, satisfying dish. It’s versatile, quick, and perfect for anyone who loves a meal that feels special without a mountain of effort. The freshness of the spinach and cherry tomatoes complements the rich sauce, while the bowtie pasta ensures every bite is a delight. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of deliciousness tonight!
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Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set this sweet and tangy sauce aside while you cook the chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as they cook. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the cooked bowtie pasta, chicken, and the honey mustard sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts slightly and the tomatoes are warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious bowl of Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta!
Notes
- Marinate chicken briefly in half the honey mustard sauce for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently to keep chicken tender.
