Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta

Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender grilled chicken, sweet honey, and a hint of black pepper, all tossed with al dente pasta in a creamy sauce. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors, paired with savory grilled chicken, creates a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is versatile and can be enhanced with additions like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 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 minced garlic

• 1 tablespoon butter
  
  

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season both sides of 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 and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.

3. 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, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes until the honey slightly caramelizes and thickens. 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 to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine and ensure everything is well coated with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

5. Serve:
   Divide the pasta and chicken among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
   
   

Serving and Nutritional Information:

• Servings: 4

• Calories per serving: Approximately 450–500 kcal
  
  

• Key Nutrients:

  • Protein: 30g

  • Carbohydrates: 45g

  • Fat: 20g
    
    

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.