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Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta: A Sweet and Spicy Delight for Your Dinner Table

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There’s something magical about the balance of sweet honey, bold black pepper, and creamy Parmesan sauce wrapped around tender grilled chicken and pasta. This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners where every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making it for a quiet night in or to impress guests, this recipe is a winner! Try it out and let me know how it turns out!

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

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the honey and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the honey to caramelize slightly.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and toss to combine.

5. Serve

  1. Divide the pasta among plates.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  3. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of honey and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.swedishinarabic.net/honey-pepper-chicken-pasta-a-sweet-and-spicy-delight-for-your-dinner-table/