Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Experience the perfect fusion of smoky heat and creamy comfort with this Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together tender, spice-rubbed chicken breasts and penne pasta, all tossed in a luscious sauce that balances the sweetness of honey with the bold kick of chipotle peppers in adobo. It is a vibrant, satisfying meal that elevates a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special.

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Whether you are a fan of spicy Southwestern flavors or simply looking for a new way to enjoy chicken pasta, this recipe delivers. The addition of fresh lime juice at the end cuts through the richness of the cream, while cilantro adds a burst of freshness that rounds out the smoky adobo notes perfectly.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil
• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta
• Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped), 3 tbsp honey, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, Juice of 1/2 lime
• Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, Extra grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Sear and Slice

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 74°C/165°F). Transfer to a plate, rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and honey. Cook for 1 minute, then add heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Add lime juice.

Step 7: Combine

Toss in drained pasta and sliced chicken, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency. Cook 1–2 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and extra Parmesan if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

You can easily adjust the heat level of this dish by varying the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. For a milder flavor, use one tablespoon; for those who love an extra kick, feel free to increase the amount or add a teaspoon of the adobo sauce itself.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter alternative, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half. To add more texture and nutrition, consider tossing in roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even fresh baby spinach right before serving.

Serviervorschläge

This bold and smoky pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp, chilled Chardonnay to balance the creaminess. Alternatively, a light Mexican lager serves as a refreshing companion to the spicy chipotle notes.

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Enjoy the complex, layered flavors of this Creamy Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta. It is a hearty and delicious dish that brings together the best of sweet, smoky, and savory elements in one comforting bowl.

Recipe FAQs

→ How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is medium and adjustable. Two tablespoons of chipotle peppers provide a gentle smoky warmth that's balanced by the sweetness of honey and creaminess of the sauce. Reduce to one tablespoon for milder flavor or increase to three for more kick.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store it refrigerated in an airtight container. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore consistency before tossing with cooked pasta and chicken.

→ What pasta shapes work best?

Penne is ideal because its ridges and tube shape capture the thick creamy sauce beautifully. Fusilli, rigatoni, or gemelli also work well. Avoid long strands like spaghetti as the sauce won't coat evenly.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay juicy. Season and cook them the same way, adding 1-2 minutes per side since thighs may be slightly thicker than breasts. Slice before serving.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The sauce thickens when refrigerated, so reheat with a splash of cream, broth, or water over medium-low heat. The microwave works too—stir halfway through and add liquid if needed.

→ What can I serve alongside this?

A crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add freshness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls help soak up extra sauce. For wine pairing, try Chardonnay or a light Mexican lager.