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Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 0h 10m
  • Cook Time: 0h 20m
  • Total Time: 0h 30m
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and coated in a creamy, honey-infused pepper sauce. Paired with al dente pasta and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces pasta

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Heat a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat until boiling. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for sauce adjustment, and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the 2 chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken and let it rest on a plate.
  3. Create the Honey Pepper Base: Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon honey and warm for 30 seconds, stirring gently. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour 1/4 cup heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
  5. Slice and Coat the Chicken: Slice cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add them back to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy honey pepper sauce.
  6. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Use additional pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
  7. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and chicken. Toss again until the cheese melts into the sauce, adding richness and depth.
  8. Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
  9. Serve: Serve immediately, ensuring each portion has plenty of chicken and creamy sauce. Enjoy hot for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Reserve a small amount of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
  • Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright garnish and can be substituted with fresh basil or chives if desired.
  • This recipe works well with any medium or long pasta like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.

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Find it online: https://speedyhomecooking.com/honey-pepper-chicken-pasta-recipe/