Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that showcases tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings warmth and comfort to your dining table, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The smoky undertones of paprika combined with the sweetness of honey create a unique profile that’s bound to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends.
Why you’ll love this dish
When it comes to home-cooked meals, this recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just under 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you still want to serve something satisfying and flavorful. Additionally, it hits the sweet spot for family-friendliness; the kids will love the sticky, sweet sauce, while adults will appreciate the smoky twist.
Don’t just take my word for it! Here’s a testimonial from a happy cook:
“This Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta was a hit at our dinner table last night! My kids couldn’t get enough, and I loved how easy it was. Definitely adding this to our weekly rotation!”
How this recipe comes together
Preparing Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is an absolute breeze. You’ll start by cooking the pasta to perfection and setting aside some of that starchy pasta water, which will help create a beautifully cohesive sauce. Meanwhile, in a skillet, you’ll melt butter and sauté garlic until it’s aromatic, followed by browning the seasoned chicken thighs. The magic happens when you add soy sauce and honey to the skillet, creating a sticky, flavorful sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully. Finally, finish everything off by tossing the pasta with the chicken mixture, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to whip up your Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta:
- 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
Feel free to switch out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even try tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Step-by-step instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, usually about 30 seconds.
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (and red pepper flakes if desired). Add them to the skillet and cook them until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce and honey, stirring well. Let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
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Combine: Toss in the drained pasta, mixing everything well. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve: Dish the pasta onto plates or bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a cozy family dinner, serve it in bowls topped with fresh parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Alternatively, for a casual gathering, allow guests to help themselves from a large serving dish, enhancing the communal feel.
Storage and reheating tips
To store any leftovers, allow the pasta to cool and then transfer it into an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional butter to revive the sauce’s consistency. If you want to store it longer, Freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to give it a good stir as it reheats!
Helpful cooking tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente yields the right texture and allows it to hold up in the sauce.
- Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add additional vegetables to the skillet, such as bell peppers or broccoli, for extra nutrition.
- Pan Sauce: Don’t skip the step of reserving pasta water; it’s crucial for binding the sauce to the pasta beautifully.
Creative twists
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider these variations:
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use different types of pasta like farfalle or spaghetti for a new presentation.
- Experiment with additional spices, such as garlic powder or chili powder, for extra depth.
Your questions answered
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How long does it take to make this dish?
It typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a weeknight meal. -
Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs; just adjust cooking time, as breasts may cook faster. -
What can I do with leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later enjoyment. Reheat gently to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta not only delivers rich flavors but also convenience, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether it’s a warm weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main 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
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sautéing the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, usually about 30 seconds.
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (and red pepper flakes if desired). Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in the soy sauce and honey, stirring well. Let it simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
Combining the Dish
- Toss in the drained pasta, mixing everything well. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Serving
- Dish the pasta onto plates or bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
