If you're on the hunt for a delicious, easy-to-make, and crowd-pleasing dish, look no further than Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta. This flavorful meal combines tender chicken, a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Let's jump right into the magic of making this irresistible Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta!
Ingredients
To serve 4, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) or 3 medium ones
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works great)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges for an extra zing
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry. Slice them into thin strips or bite-sized cubes for quicker cooking.
- Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss them lightly to ensure they're coated evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
3. Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet, making sure they’re spread out in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Stir in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine It All
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing it in the honey garlic sauce until fully coated.
- Add the drained pasta and the reserved pasta water (a little at a time) to the skillet. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta, making it extra creamy. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Finish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and stir in the butter for a glossy finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a drizzle of lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Customization Ideas
- Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for added texture and color.
- Switch the Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef strips if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcook the garlic; it should be slightly golden for optimal flavor.
- Taste and adjust the sauce’s sweetness or saltiness to your liking as you go.
- Always save some pasta water to help bring the sauce and pasta together!
Why You’ll Love It
Every bite of this Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta feels like a hug in a bowl. The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory flavors, while the garlic infuses the dish with its mouthwatering aroma. Combined with the tender chicken and al dente pasta, this dish is nothing short of perfection.
Give this recipe a spin tonight, and get ready to bask in the compliments from anyone lucky enough to join you at the table! Bon appétit!
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