Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream! It’s honestly one of my all-time favorite meals to whip up when I want something that feels indulgent but is still super easy to make. The tender chicken, enveloped in that creamy, dreamy parmesan sauce, just dances with the sweet hints of honey and the aromatic garlic. And the twisted pasta? It’s like a little hug for the sauce, catching every bit of flavor! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion where you want to impress, this dish never disappoints. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients for Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz twisted pasta: This is the star of the dish! You can use any twisted pasta you like, such as fusilli or cavatappi, to hold onto that creamy sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts, diced: Tender chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- 2 tbsp honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory garlic and creamy cheese.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives this dish its aromatic depth—don’t skimp on this!
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and rich.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts beautifully into the sauce for that cheesy goodness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and enhancing overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce perfectly.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast when serving.
How to Prepare Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—it should taste like the ocean! Add the twisted pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want it to have a slight bite to it because it’ll continue to cook a bit when we mix it with the sauce. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! We want that starchy goodness to help the sauce cling later.
Preparing the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, let’s get our chicken ready! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, making sure to season it generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for building flavor! Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You want that golden color, as it adds so much depth to the dish!
Making the Sauce
Now, let’s elevate that chicken with some flavor! Add the minced garlic and honey to the skillet with the chicken. Stir it all together and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts into that creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes to let those flavors meld together beautifully.
Combining Ingredients
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked twisted pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated in that luscious sauce. Don’t be shy—get in there and mix it up! You want every twist of pasta to be drenched in that cheesy goodness.
Final Touches
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that pop of color and a burst of freshness! This little touch makes a huge difference. Serve it up hot, and get ready for some happy faces around the table! Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a fantastic meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure your twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by:
- Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to taste the sauce while cooking! Adjust the sweetness or seasoning by adding more honey or salt and pepper as needed. It’s your dish, so make it just how you like it!
- Cheese choice: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged kind. It melts beautifully and makes a world of difference!
- Make it your own: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein if you want a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
- Herbs and spices: Want to add a little extra flavor? Toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh basil for a pop of freshness. It’s all about personal preference!
- Keep it creamy: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t panic! Just stir in a splash of pasta water or more cream to loosen it up. It’ll help keep everything silky smooth.
- Meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully! If you’re making it ahead of time, just store it in an airtight container. When you reheat, add a splash of cream to bring back that luscious texture.
With these tips, you’ll be making this delightful dish like a pro in no time! Enjoy the cooking process and have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a little breakdown of what you can expect in terms of nutrition for each serving of this delicious twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands you use:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
These numbers reflect a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for fueling your day. Just remember, you can always tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences—like using less cream or opting for whole grain pasta. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some common questions about making this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream. Let’s dive in and clear up any confusion!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the twisted pasta for any pasta shape you love—penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti would work wonderfully. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they can vary.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce may be a bit less rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk for creaminess!
How can I make this dish spicy?
If you’re a fan of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re cooking the chicken. It’ll give the dish a delightful kick without overpowering the flavors!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just cook everything and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to bring back that creamy texture.
What should I serve with this pasta?
I love serving it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You can also pair it with roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious meal!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Definitely! Just be sure to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can also cook it from frozen, but it will take longer and you’ll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, and add a bit of cream or pasta water to keep it creamy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory, leaving everyone at the table wanting more!
- Comforting Creaminess: The rich, creamy sauce envelops the twisted pasta beautifully, giving you that satisfying, indulgent experience in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your taste by swapping proteins, adding veggies, or adjusting the sweetness—make it your own!
- Meal Prep Friendly: This pasta dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping or quick lunches throughout the week.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Perfect for impressing guests or family without the stress—everyone will think you slaved over a gourmet meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of this twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream can be a lifesaver for those busy days! Here’s how to store and reheat it while keeping all that delicious flavor intact:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent it from drying out!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a splash of cream or some reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions! Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Again, adding a little cream or water helps maintain that luscious texture.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to savor every bite of this delightful dish even after the first meal. Enjoy your delicious pasta again and again!
Twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and creamy bliss
- Całkowity Czas: 30 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
Twisted pasta with honey garlic chicken and parmesan cream is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful pasta.
Składniki
- 8 oz twisted pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instrukcje
- Cook the twisted pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and honey to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Uwagi
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer.
- Adjust the amount of honey to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Czas Przygotowania: 10 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Course
- Sposób: Stovetop
- Kuchnia: Italian
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 serving
- Kalorie: 600
- Cukier: 8g
- Sód: 600mg
- Kwasy: 30g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 15g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 60g
- Włókno: 3g
- Białko: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Słowa kluczowe: twisted pasta, honey garlic chicken, parmesan cream, pasta dish
