Description
A cozy, creamy one-skillet pasta dish made with tender chicken thighs, smoky white cheddar, honey butter, and a touch of garlic. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz dry pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix honey and cream in a bowl and set aside.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in butter and garlic.
- Pour in the cream-honey mixture. Simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the white cheddar off the heat until melted and smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything together.
- Sprinkle with parsley, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- If sauce gets too thick, thin it with a splash of pasta water.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Let chicken rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: chicken pasta skillet, white cheddar pasta, honey butter chicken, creamy skillet dinner, smoky chicken recipe