why make this recipe
Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that brings comfort food to your table in no time. With tender chicken thighs coated in a flavorful sticky sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. The combination of garlic, honey, and soy sauce creates a unique taste that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great option when you want something comforting yet simple.
how to make Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 oz penne or linguine pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes; cook until golden brown.
- Add soy sauce and honey to the skillet; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and gradually add reserved pasta water until well-coated.
- Serve warm garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Serve your Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta warm right from the skillet. Garnish it with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors.
how to store Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen it up.
tips to make Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and honey mixture for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the level of heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them in the skillet along with the garlic before adding the chicken. This will make the dish even more hearty and flavorful.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
2. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the dish! Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
A delicious and easy meal featuring tender chicken thighs and pasta coated in a flavorful sticky sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 oz penne or linguine pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes; cook until golden brown.
- Add soy sauce and honey to the skillet; simmer until slightly thickened.
- Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and gradually add reserved pasta water until well-coated.
- Serve warm garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and honey mixture for about 30 minutes before cooking. Adjust the level of heat with red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
