Get ready to fall in love with every bite of this Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe! It’s an irresistible blend of smoky chipotle heat balanced by the sweetness of honey, perfectly wrapped around tender chicken and al dente pasta. Creamy, zesty, and full of bold flavors, this dish is a weeknight winner that feels special enough for guests. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a kick or an easy but impressive meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes and will soon become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays its part — from the smoky spices that coat the chicken to the creamy, slightly sweet sauce that clings to every pasta piece, making this recipe both satisfying and vibrant.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the smoky and sweet flavors.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a deep smoky aroma that’s essential for that chipotle vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of chicken and pasta.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little heat that rounds out the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing chicken to a golden perfection.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The sturdy pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the rich base for the sauce’s garlic sauté.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic builds layers of aromatic flavor in the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped: The star of the recipe bringing smoky heat and complexity.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings creamy richness to every forkful.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency while intensifying flavor.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Final seasoning adjustment for balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle warmth enhancing the sauce’s depth.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Brightens and lifts all the flavors with a fresh citrus punch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant green pop.
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese, optional: For sprinkling on top just before serving.
How to Make Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta following package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta, but remember to save 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water — it’s a magic ingredient to loosen up the sauce if it gets too thick. Setting this aside early makes finishing the dish much smoother.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, give your chicken breasts some love with the seasoning. Coat both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple rub injects a smoky-spicy punch that pairs beautifully with the chipotle in the sauce. It’s the secret that makes your chicken sing.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes — this keeps the juices locked in. Then slice thinly to get those mouthwatering bites ready for the pasta.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet, letting it melt and coat the pan. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned. This quick step builds a fragrant foundation that makes the sauce irresistible.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Next, stir in the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and honey. Cook this combo for a minute to marry the smoky heat with the honey’s sweetness. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens just enough to coat a spoon.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Time for a cheesy touch! Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating that luscious creaminess we crave. To brighten the flavors, squeeze in the juice of half a lime — it adds a fresh, tangy lift that balances the richness and heat perfectly.
Step 7: Combine and Heat
Finally, toss in the drained pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. If it’s looking too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to reach your desired saucy consistency. Cook everything together for 1 to 2 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to mingle. This step ensures every bite is coated in that heavenly honey chipotle sauce.
How to Serve Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully, adding a vibrant color pop. Don’t be shy with extra Parmesan cheese — a little more cheesy goodness on top makes this dish feel indulgent and complete.
Side Dishes
This dish stands tall on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green sides like a simple mixed salad or steamed broccoli. For a bit more indulgence, garlic bread or warm crusty rolls complement the creamy sauce perfectly, letting you scoop up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special twist, serve your Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual bowls sprinkled with extra cilantro and a lime wedge on the side for guests to squeeze at will. You could also plate it on heated rustic ceramic dishes for cozy vibes, or even pile it into a hollowed bell pepper for an eye-catching presentation that makes dinner feel festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce thick and creamy by gently reheating on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up as needed.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and slowly reheat on the stove to maintain texture and flavor without drying out.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low-medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of broth, cream, or water as you warm the dish to restore that silky sauce texture. Avoid microwave reheating when possible for more even heat and to keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle work beautifully too. Just be sure to cook them al dente to avoid mushy bites.
How spicy is this Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce give a smoky heat that’s medium mild but warming — the honey tones it down nicely. If you prefer less spice, reduce the chipotles or omit the adobo sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, making it a delicious yet dairy-free version.
What can I substitute for fresh cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your thing or unavailable, fresh parsley or chopped green onions make lovely garnish alternatives that still bring color and a fresh note.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It is, but the texture of creamy sauces can change after freezing. For best results, freeze leftovers without pasta, and add freshly cooked pasta after reheating the sauce.
Final Thoughts
I promise once you try this Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to for satisfying dinners. The fusion of bold smoky spice and gentle honey sweetness, rounded out with creamy Parmesan sauce, creates that perfect comfort food vibe with a fun twist. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds, so keep those ingredients ready. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful, cozy bite!
Print
Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful and creamy Honey Chipotle Chicken Pasta that combines tender seared chicken breasts with a smoky, sweet, and spicy chipotle-honey sauce. This dish features perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a luscious, cheesy sauce with a hint of lime and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish. It’s an easy and flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta while reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to build flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant to develop the sauce’s aromatic base.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the finely chopped chipotle peppers and honey. Cook this mixture for 1 minute to meld flavors. Then add heavy cream, low-sodium chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it slightly thickens.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Add the juice of half a lime to brighten the sauce with a fresh citrus note.
- Combine and Heat: Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more to heat through and combine flavors thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve the honey chipotle chicken pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired, for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Notes
- For spicier heat, increase the amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps loosen the sauce without making it watery.
- Letting the chicken rest after searing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier sauce and better flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially after adding parmesan as it can add saltiness.
