Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
- 180 mL (¾ cup) honey
- 50 g (¼ cup) light brown sugar
- 45 mL (3 tbsp) low sodium soy sauce
- 60 mL (¼ cup) pineapple juice
- 15 mL (1 tbsp) lemon juice
- 15 mL (1 tbsp) white vinegar
- 2 g (1 tsp) black pepper
- 0.5 g (¼ tsp) cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 113 g (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 475 mL (2 cups) heavy cream
- 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 75 g (¾ cup) shredded colby jack cheese
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of dried basil (optional, for garnish)
- 400 g (14 oz) penne pasta
- 500 g (1.1 lb) chicken tenders or strips
- 100 g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs or breading of choice
- Cooking oil spray (if air frying)
- In a small saucepan, combine: honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, lemon juice, white vinegar, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring often.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring to avoid boiling over.
- To thicken, stir in a slurry (cornstarch or flour + water) and simmer briefly.
- Set aside to cool and thicken.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat, then add heavy cream.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually mix in Parmesan, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheese until smooth.
- Add minced garlic and basil (if using), stir well, then set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta until al dente, according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Coat chicken tenders evenly in breadcrumbs or your chosen breading.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
(Alternatively, bake or shallow fry to your preference.)
- Toss cooked pasta with cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Generously coat crispy chicken strips in honey pepper sauce.
- Plate the pasta, top with chicken, and drizzle extra sauce as desired.
- Garnish with dried basil or herbs for flair.
Serve warm and enjoy this delicious blend of creamy cheese, crispy chicken, and sweet-spicy honey pepper sauce!