One-Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken & Rice Pasta

A savory, sweet, and aromatic one-pot meal that combines succulent chicken, fragrant garlic, and a rich honey-soy glaze with rice pasta. This fuss-free dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience – Requires only one vessel, reducing cleanup and complexity.

• Balanced Flavours – The honey and garlic meld seamlessly with soy, creating a sweet-savory harmony.

• Time-Efficient – Ready on the table in approximately 35 minutes.

• Highly Adaptable – Easily customise proteins, vegetables, or seasonings to suit dietary preferences.

• Excellent Leftovers – Flavours develop further upon resting and reheating, making this ideal for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, diced

• Rice pasta

• Garlic, minced

• Honey

• Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)

• Chicken broth

• Olive oil

• Onion, diced

• Bell peppers, sliced

• Carrots, julienned

• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown on all sides.

2. Add the diced onion, sliced bell peppers, and julienned carrots. Sauté until the vegetables soften, approximately 4–5 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce (or tamari), and chicken broth. Pour the mixture into the pot, stirring to combine.

5. Add the rice pasta and gently stir to ensure the pasta is coated with the sauce. Increase the heat slightly to bring the liquid to a gentle boil.

6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.

7. Remove from heat and allow the dish to rest, covered, for 2–3 minutes.

8. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Variation: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha into the sauce for added heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or a medley of mushrooms.

• Alternate Proteins: Use shrimp, beef strips, or ground turkey in place of chicken.

• Additional Vegetables: Include broccoli florets, snap peas, or zucchini for extra colour and nutrition.

• Gluten-Free Adjustment: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the pasta is certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Reheating on the Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of chicken broth to refresh the sauce if it has thickened.

• Reheating in the Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to promote even warming.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as rice pasta may become overly soft when thawed and reheated.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Rice pasta is recommended for its gluten-free nature and ability to absorb flavours, but any short-cut pasta will suffice.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You may complete all steps up to the final garnish, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving and add fresh garnish.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

Reduce the quantity of honey or balance with a splash of rice vinegar for a more tangy profile.

Is there a low-sodium option?

Use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and substitute part of the chicken broth with water.

Can I omit the oil entirely?

You may use a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of broth to prevent sticking, though oil aids in browning the chicken.

How do I ensure the chicken remains tender?

Avoid overcooking by browning quickly over medium heat and then simmering gently; rest the dish briefly off heat before serving.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread complement the flavours and textures.

How do I thicken the sauce if it is too thin?

Uncover the pot and simmer for an extra few minutes, or whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. The recipe contains no dairy ingredients by default.

What herbs or spices pair well with this dish?

Fresh cilantro, basil, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame oil enhance the aromatics and depth of flavour.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken & Rice Pasta recipe offers a delectable balance of sweet and savory flavours, all achieved in a single pot for fuss-free preparation and cleanup. Its versatility and make-ahead potential render it an excellent choice for busy households, family dinners, or meal-prep routines. Give it a try to experience a comforting, flavour-packed dish that caters to a range of dietary preferences.