Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

Name: Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream Delight!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz twisted pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on September 20, 2025

DINNER

Introduction to Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up a delicious meal can feel like a daunting task. That’s where my Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream comes in! This dish is not only a quick solution for a busy day, but it’s also a creamy, comforting delight that will impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

This Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a flavor explosion that your family will adore. Plus, the creamy Parmesan sauce wraps everything in a warm hug, making it a comforting meal that feels special without the fuss. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

Let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful dish! Each component plays a vital role in creating that creamy, savory goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Twisted Pasta: This fun shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite a treat.
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken adds protein and heartiness, making this dish satisfying.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly.
Soy Sauce: This brings a rich umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish to new heights.
Heavy Cream: The star of the show! It creates that luscious, creamy sauce we all crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, it adds richness and helps with browning.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples enhance all the flavors.

For those looking to mix things up, consider these options:

Protein Substitutes: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Garnishes: Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can elevate the presentation.

Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream is simple to make, and I promise it will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Twisted Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the twisted pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the sauce!

Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. A little tip: drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil over it to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the diced chicken. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink in the center.

Don’t rush this step! Browning the chicken adds flavor that will make your dish shine.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 2 minced garlic cloves. This sweet and savory sauce is what makes this dish so special!

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey garlic mixture over it. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Create the Parmesan Cream Sauce

Now, reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!

Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You want it to be just right!

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Finally, add the cooked twisted pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that luscious sauce. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!

Serve hot, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for that restaurant-style finish. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite of your Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream!

Tips for Success

Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
For a creamier sauce, let it simmer a bit longer on low heat.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: For boiling the twisted pasta. A Dutch oven works too!
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
Measuring Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements; a simple liquid measuring cup will do.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients without scratching your skillet.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based meal.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free twisted pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in additional cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions

Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a pop of color.

FAQs about Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey garlic chicken and the Parmesan cream sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked twisted pasta.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken it. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! While twisted pasta is fun and holds the sauce well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work beautifully in this recipe.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers, and it will last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce while it cooks. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Cream truly embodies that spirit. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table, perfect for busy nights when you want something special without the hassle. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with that creamy sauce, creates a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family dinners, just as it has in mine. Enjoy every delicious bite, and happy cooking!