If you love pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug after a long day, then the Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish brings together tender chicken caramelized with honey, the comforting creaminess of white cheddar, and a touch of smoked paprika that adds a gentle smoky depth. It’s all cooked right in one skillet, making it a perfect dinner that’s both indulgent and surprisingly simple to pull together. Every bite is a glorious blend of savory, sweet, and creamy that’ll have you going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to create outstanding flavor and richness. Each component has a role, from the smoky chicken to the melty white cheddar cheese that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and great texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor that’s the signature of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Provides a lovely sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates richness and a silky sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken evenly with a nice crisp.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic pungency that complements the creamy cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the sauce slightly while keeping it creamy.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese: The star cheese that melts beautifully into the creamy sauce.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells): Perfect shapes to hold onto that decadent sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and extra depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your chosen pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. This ensures it’s perfectly tender but still holds its shape. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside so it’s ready to be folded into the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to infuse that smoky allure throughout. Add the chicken to the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for 5–7 minutes, allowing a golden crust to develop. Flip to cook evenly until fully cooked through and beautifully browned.
Step 3: Caramelize with Honey
Drizzle in the honey and stir the chicken around the pan for 1–2 minutes. The honey will caramelize just slightly, creating a delightful glaze on the chicken pieces that’s equal parts sweet and savory. Remove the chicken and set it aside for the moment.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the very same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté briefly just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, so the flavors bloom. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine and heat gently.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the shredded white cheddar followed by the Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring continuously until all the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Step 6: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked pasta and the honey butter chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together, coating each piece and noodle with the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld and the dish heats through perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to add a burst of green color and a slight herbal note that balances the richness beautifully. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan for cheese lovers who appreciate that sharp finish.
Side Dishes
This hearty skillet stands well on its own, but consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to contrast the creamy texture. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also add a fresh, vibrant counterpoint without overpowering the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style meal, serve the skillet directly at the table so everyone can help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Alternatively, plate the pasta with a gentle drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top to visually enhance the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to revive the creamy sauce without breaking it. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to bring back the silky texture. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While white cheddar gives this dish its signature flavor, you can experiment with smoked gouda, mozzarella, or a blend for a different twist. Just remember the meltability and flavor intensity when choosing your cheese.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach. You can also use plant-based chicken alternatives that hold up well in the skillet.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne, rotini, or shells are all excellent because their shapes grab onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer or have on hand.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce to suit your heat preference. Just be mindful to balance with the honey’s sweetness.
How do I get the chicken extra tender and juicy?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken by monitoring it closely during the 5–7 minute cooking step. Also, cutting the chicken into uniform pieces helps it cook evenly and stay moist.
Final Thoughts
Giving the Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe a try is like inviting a cozy, flavorful celebration into your kitchen. Its combination of sweet, smoky, and creamy promises to satisfy dinner cravings with minimal fuss. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know!
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Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet combines tender chicken pieces caramelized in honey and smoky paprika with a rich and velvety white cheddar cheese sauce. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with garlic, butter, and a hint of spice, this one-pan dish is a comforting and flavorful American main course that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons honey
Cooking Fats and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce and Pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to use later in the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika before adding them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Caramelize with Honey: Stir in the honey with the chicken and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to become lightly caramelized. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine with the garlic. Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the shredded white cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked pasta and honey butter chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat everything evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Warm Through: Allow the skillet to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve the creamy smoky white cheddar honey butter chicken pasta hot for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use smoked white cheddar cheese for a richer, more pronounced smoky flavor.
- Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skillet to boost texture and nutritional value.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and milk.
