Introduction to TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
Hey there! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up delicious meals, you’ll want to lean into this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream. Picture this: a comforting dish that’s not just easy to make but also packed with flavor to impress your loved ones. This recipe is a one-pan wonder that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and those delightful twisted pasta shapes that kids absolutely love! Trust me; it’s the perfect choice for any weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering!
Why You’ll Love This TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
This twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream is a game-changer in the kitchen! It’s not only quick and easy to whip up but bursting with mouthwatering flavors. In just 25 minutes, you can serve a satisfying meal that feels gourmet. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to adults craving something hearty. You’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients for TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
This twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream gets its delightful taste from a medley of ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cellentani pasta: These twisted shapes grab hold of the creamy sauce, making every bite a joy.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and healthy, they soak up all those wonderful flavors. You can swap with thighs if you prefer a richer taste.
- Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen! It adds a touch of richness and helps cook the chicken beautifully.
- Butter: For that luscious creaminess in the sauce, a bit of butter is essential.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates any dish, infusing it with a fragrant, warm aroma.
- Cajun seasoning: This adds a nice kick; feel free to adjust for your spice tolerance!
- Smoked paprika: It lends a lovely depth and a hint of smokiness to the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple yet mighty, these enhance all the flavors in the recipe.
- Honey: Sweetness balances out the savory elements, creating that irresistible glaze for the chicken.
- Soy sauce: It brings umami into the mix, deepening the flavor profile.
- Heavy cream: The star of the creamy sauce, it makes everything velvety smooth.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. Always great to have extra for serving!
- Chicken broth: This provides extra flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Chopped green onions: Perfect for garnish, they add a fresh, crunchy texture that brightens up the dish.
For exact measurements, check out the end of the article where you can find them listed for easy printing!
How to Make TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
Now, let’s dive into making this delightful twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be bringing a burst of flavor to your table in no time.
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. When the water is at a rolling boil, toss in your Cellentani pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. When the butter melts, add your cubed chicken breasts. Cook for 6-8 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This step fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!
Step 3: Adding the Seasonings
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to amp up the flavor! Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook this mix for another minute, letting those spices bloom while you’re stirring constantly. It’s a game-changer for enhancing the overall taste.
Step 4: Creating the Honey Garlic Sauce
Next, pour in ¼ cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Give everything a good stir to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This sweet and savory blend will have you dreaming of deliciousness!
Step 5: Making the Creamy Parm Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Now, add in 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup of chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and you have a creamy, dreamy sauce. This part feels like magic as it transforms into a velvety delight!
Step 6: Combining with Pasta
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix it well to ensure each twist of pasta is coated in that luxurious sauce. Serve immediately, garnishing with some chopped green onions and extra Parmesan cheese. And just like that, you have a stunning meal ready to wow your family and friends!
Tips for Success
- Keep an eye on the pasta; it can go from perfectly cooked to mushy in no time!
- Feel free to customize the spice levels in the chicken to suit your family’s taste.
- Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the green onions—they add a fantastic crunch and fresh flavor.
- Making this dish ahead? Add the pasta just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta; a Dutch oven works great too!
- Skillet: A large non-stick skillet is ideal for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring; a spatula will do just fine as well!
- Meat thermometer: Helpful for checking chicken doneness; if you don’t have one, just cut into the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink.
Variations of TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for a colorful, nutritious boost.
- Swap the protein: Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lower the calories: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Herb it up: Mix in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
- A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Serve with warm garlic bread to scoop up that delicious sauce.
- Garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flair.
FAQs about TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While I love using Cellentani for its delightful twists, any pasta shape you prefer will work well. Try penne or fusilli for similar results!
How can I make this dish healthier? You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk. You could also use whole grain pasta and add in some fresh vegetables for extra nutrition.
What if I don’t have honey? No worries! Maple syrup could be a great substitute. It’ll add a lovely sweetness without compromising the flavor, making it a good alternative for this savory dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then just toss in the cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. This will help you save precious minutes on busy nights!
How do I store leftovers? This twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop for the best results!
Final Thoughts
Every time I whip up this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken & parmesan cream, it fills my kitchen with warmth and love. The balance of sweet and savory flavors dances on the palate, making it a dish you can’t resist! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, knowing it can be on the table in just 25 minutes makes my busy life a little easier. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful meal—your family will surely thank you for it!
Print
TWISTED PASTA WITH HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN & PARMESAN CREAM: A Flavorful Delight You Can’t Resist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A Flavorful Delight You Can’t Resist!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Cellentani pasta (twisted pasta), or similar shape
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the Parmesan cream sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can adjust the spices according to your taste preference.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 650
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
