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
Scale
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.
