Description
This Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce clinging to al dente pasta. It’s a delightful balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Begin by cooking your pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tbsp of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, and watch for it to foam slightly. Once the butter is bubbly but not browned, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can turn bitter.
- Next, season your chicken thighs: Pat 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of smoked paprika. This will enhance the flavor and help create a nice crust during cooking.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The outside should be nicely caramelized.
- Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1/4 cup of honey, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly and coats the chicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Now it’s time to combine everything: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Toss to combine, and gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time (up to 1/2 cup) until everything is well-coated and the desired consistency is reached. The sauce should be sticky and cling to the pasta.
- Finally, serve your Sticky Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta warm. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the vibrant colors and the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: A common mistake is cooking the pasta too long, resulting in a mushy texture. Always check the pasta a minute or two before the package time to ensure it’s al dente. For best flavor, let the garlic sauté until it’s just golden before adding the chicken. Consider doubling the garlic and honey if you love those flavors—they create a delicious sticky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta!