Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta (Printable Version)

Tender chicken and penne in a creamy honey chipotle sauce with fresh herbs

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Pasta

07 - 12 ounces penne pasta

→ Sauce

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
11 - 3 tablespoons honey
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
14 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
17 - Juice of 1/2 lime

→ Garnish

18 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
19 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
02 - Season the chicken breasts on both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through with internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
04 - In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and honey. Cook for 1 minute, then add heavy cream, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring until slightly thickened.
06 - Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Add lime juice.
07 - Toss in drained pasta and sliced chicken, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until well coated and heated through.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Bold Flavor Profile: A unique sweet-and-smoky combination that satisfies the palate.
  • Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich, velvety coating for the pasta.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
  • High Protein: Features generous portions of seared chicken for a filling main course.
02 -
  • Pasta Water: Always reserve a bit of the starchy pasta water; it is the secret to getting the sauce to perfectly cling to the penne.
  • Don't Overcook: Ensure the chicken is seared just until it reaches 74°C (165°F) to maintain its juiciness.
  • Fresh Garnish: Adding the cilantro and lime juice at the very end ensures the brightest flavor profile.
  • Quality Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of the pre-shredded variety for a much smoother melt.
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