Description
A quick and comforting pasta dish with tender chicken in a honey-cream sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Pat the chicken pieces very dry with paper towels. Toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning and a light pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear, stirring occasionally, about 6–8 minutes, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add 1/4 cup butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds.
- Stir in 2 tbsp honey and let it bubble gently for about 1 minute.
- Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and stir until smooth, about 1–2 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce; heat through for about 1 minute.
- Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to combine. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until reaching desired consistency.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use linguine or penne if desired. For a dairy-free option, substitute plant-based butter and coconut milk. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun