Description
This Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet is a delightful 30-minute meal combining tender chicken breast pieces with a luscious, smoky white cheddar sauce sweetened with honey. The pasta is perfectly coated in a rich, creamy sauce infused with smoked paprika and garlic, making for a comforting and flavorful dish ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons honey
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Simmer and Thicken Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, which allows it to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
- Add Cheese and Honey: Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese and honey, continuing to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat every piece with the creamy cheesy sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the dish is heated through evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy this creamy, smoky, sweet, and savory pasta skillet!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use a sturdy pasta like penne or rigatoni to hold the creamy sauce well.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen sauce if needed.
