The aroma of One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta wafts through your kitchen, teasing your senses with its creamy goodness. Imagine a dish so comforting that every bite feels like a warm hug from your favorite sweater, complete with the delightful crunch of tender chicken and the sweetness of honey dancing on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family during one of those chaotic weeknights when everyone is hangry and ready to revolt. As I stirred the creamy pasta, it felt like magic, transforming grumpy faces into happy smiles. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this pasta will have you contemplating how something so easy can taste so gourmet.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta is quick to prepare, making dinner less stressful on busy nights.
- Its creamy texture paired with a sweet twist creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Visually appealing with its creamy sauce and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
- This dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients for One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will work well, but feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
- Pasta: Any shape works here, but I love using penne for its ability to hold onto that luscious sauce.
- White Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp white cheddar; it adds depth and creaminess that will make you swoon.
- Honey: Sweetness meets savory in this recipe; choose raw honey for an extra touch of flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth keeps the flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil gives everything a nice sheen and richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sear until golden brown on both sides about 5-6 minutes each.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once your chicken has reached that gorgeous golden hue (and you’re feeling pretty good about life), toss in minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant—this step is crucial because who doesn’t love the smell of garlic sizzling away?
Step 3: Incorporate Pasta
Now it’s time to add uncooked pasta right into the skillet with the seared chicken. Pour in chicken broth along with honey and bring everything to a boil. Stir occasionally as you let it simmer until the pasta absorbs most of that flavorful liquid around 10-12 minutes should do it.
Step 4: Creamy Goodness
After your pasta has cooked through and absorbed all that delicious broth, reduce heat to low before tossing in shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until melted and creamy; this is where things start getting really exciting!
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your pasta masterpiece and adjust seasoning as needed. If you want an extra kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes because why not?
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates or bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy! Drizzle any remaining sauce over each serving for that perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it a one-pan wonder that makes clean-up a breeze while satisfying those pesky cravings! Enjoy every bite of this delightful One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta!
You Must Know
- This One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner time a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The creamy texture and sweet notes make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for company.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. This efficient cooking sequence ensures everything melds beautifully, creating a harmonious dish in just one pan.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. Add spices like red pepper flakes for some heat, or throw in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring back that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs when possible; they elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before mixing in with the sauce.
- Lastly, let the chicken rest before slicing for juicier results.
Sometimes I think my friends love this dish more than I do! Last week at a dinner party, one friend went back for thirds now that’s a compliment I’ll never forget!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta?
To prepare One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta, you will need boneless chicken breasts, uncooked pasta, white cheddar cheese, honey, garlic, olive oil, and chicken broth. Additionally, gather salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices to enhance the dish’s flavor. This combination creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet that elevates your dinner experience.
How long does it take to cook One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta?
Cooking One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta typically takes around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. The process involves sautéing the chicken and garlic, boiling the pasta in the same pan, and combining all ingredients with the white cheddar sauce. crispy air fryer chicken This makes it an ideal meal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I make One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the dish fully and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if necessary to maintain moisture. This allows you to enjoy a quick meal without any extra cooking later.
What can I serve with One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta?
One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. veggie pasta sauce If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider adding a side of roasted asparagus or zucchini to complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
Conclusion for One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta:
In summary, One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With its blend of tender chicken, creamy white cheddar cheese, and a hint of sweetness from honey, it’s sure to become a family favorite. hot honey chicken biscuits The convenience of preparing this meal in one pan minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dining experience with minimal effort!
One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-Pan White Cheddar Honey Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy white cheddar cheese, and a hint of honey sweetness. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth along with honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked through.
- Lower the heat; add shredded white cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, then serve garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - Customize your dish by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding sautéed vegetables. - Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or mix in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for added nutrition.
