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Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

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Short Description

Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Crispy, golden chicken bites are glazed in a rich honey pepper sauce and served atop a bed of creamy garlic butter pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful Fusion: The combination of sweet honey, spicy black pepper, and creamy garlic butter offers a delightful taste experience.

  • Satisfying Texture: Crispy chicken paired with smooth, creamy pasta provides a pleasing contrast in every bite.

  • Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving something indulgent.

  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preference by modifying the amount of hot sauce.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken Bites:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

  • Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

  • 1/2 cup flour (or cornstarch for extra crispiness)

  • 2 tbsp oil for frying

For the Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.

    • Dredge the seasoned chicken pieces in flour or cornstarch until evenly coated.

    • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the Honey Pepper Sauce:

    • In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, black pepper, hot sauce (if using), and minced garlic.

    • Simmer the mixture over low heat until slightly thickened.

    • Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated.

  4. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

    • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic butter sauce, tossing to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

  6. Serve: Plate the creamy garlic butter pasta and top with the honey pepper chicken bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, following the same preparation steps.

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.

  • Extra Veggies: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the pasta for added nutrition.

  • Cheese Lovers: Add extra Parmesan or a blend of cheeses for a richer sauce.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.

  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may offer a juicier texture.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Increase the amount of hot sauce in the honey pepper sauce to elevate the heat level.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare components in advance and assemble before serving.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be suitable substitutes.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the drained pasta with a small amount of olive oil if not combining immediately with the sauce.

Print
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Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 3–4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This honey pepper chicken with creamy garlic butter pasta is the ultimate sweet-spicy-savory comfort meal. Crispy golden chicken bites coated in a sticky honey pepper glaze are perfectly paired with rich, garlicky cream-coated pasta—an irresistible weeknight dinner or dinner party star.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

  • Salt, pepper & paprika (to taste)

  • 1/2 cup flour (or cornstarch for extra crispiness)

  • 2 tbsp oil for frying

Honey Pepper Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • Fry the Chicken:

    • Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and paprika.

    • Coat in flour or cornstarch.

    • Heat oil in a pan and fry chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

  • Make the Honey Pepper Sauce:

    • In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, black pepper, garlic, and hot sauce.

    • Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

    • Toss the fried chicken bites in the sauce until well coated.

  • Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

    • Add heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.

    • Toss in the cooked pasta and coat well. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Plate and Serve:

    • Serve the creamy garlic pasta topped with honey pepper chicken.

    • Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken thighs for juicier bites.

  • Add chili flakes to the sauce for more heat.

  • Use cornstarch for a gluten-free, crispier coating.

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