Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken with Creamy Pasta is a wonderful fusion of sweet and savory flavors combined with a indulgent creamy twist. This dish delivers tender chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce paired perfectly with twisted pasta enveloped in Parmesan cream, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Whether you’re fixing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe balances comfort and elegance effortlessly. The Cajun seasoning gives a subtle kick to the chicken, while the pasta captures all the creamy sauce, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.
- Quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Combines sweet honey and savory garlic for a flavorful, well-rounded dish.
- Creamy Parmesan sauce clings beautifully to twisted pasta for indulgence.
- Versatile recipe that allows ingredient swaps to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Cellentani Pasta: 1 pound of twisted pasta ideal for catching creamy sauces, providing great texture and bite.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds cut into cubes for quick cooking and tender, juicy bites.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons to sauté chicken, offering a subtle fruity flavor and healthy fats.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons adds richness and helps to create a luscious sauce base.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced for aromatic, savory depth that complements the honey sweetness.
- Cajun Seasoning: 1 teaspoon enhances the chicken with smoky, spicy notes for extra flavor complexity.
- Honey: 1/4 cup provides sticky sweetness that balances the savory and spicy elements perfectly.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup is the foundation for the creamy Parmesan sauce, adding velvety texture.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup adds sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons infuses umami and saltiness, enriching the honey garlic glaze.
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup complements the cream sauce, enhancing overall flavor and consistency.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, seasoning that brings balance and elevates all ingredients.
- Chopped Green Onions: For garnish, adding freshness and mild onion flavor at serving.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 pound of Cellentani pasta according to package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Prepare the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. This creates a flavorful crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
- Infuse Garlic and Spice
Stir in minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the garlic aroma and allow the Cajun spices to evenly coat the chicken, building layers of flavor.
- Create the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce
Pour in 1/4 cup honey and 2 tablespoons soy sauce, then simmer for 2-3 minutes. This reduces the mixture slightly into a sticky glaze that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken, balancing sweet and savory tones.
- Mix the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Reduce heat to low and add 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Stir continuously until the Parmesan melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This sauce enriches the dish with decadent, cheesy goodness.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce and honey garlic chicken. Stir well to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and indulgent.
- Serve and Garnish
Serve the dish immediately topped with chopped green onions and extra grated Parmesan. The onions add a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich sauce, while the added cheese boosts flavor intensity.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy within the creamy sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning or honey according to your preferred spice level and sweetness.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer also complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and better searing.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese to maximize flavor and melting quality.
- For an extra flavor boost, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the cream and cheese.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli, works perfectly in this dish.
- Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less rich and creamy than with heavy cream.
- Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely; substitute traditional pasta with a gluten-free alternative to make this recipe gluten-free.
- What can I use instead of boneless skinless chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs can be used for more flavor and tenderness, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh; the creamy sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.
- How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The spice level is mild but flavorful; adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- 1 pot for boiling pasta
- 1 strainer to drain pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound cellentani pasta
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in honey and soy sauce; let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase Cajun seasoning.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
