Sweet and Savory: Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta
This Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta recipe is a delicious and easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Learn how to make this creamy and flavorful pasta dish with our step-by-step guide
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the honey and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and toss again to combine everything.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.