Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
02 - 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
03 - 1 cup heavy cream
04 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasonings & Flavors

05 - 2 tablespoons honey
06 - 1 tablespoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
07 - Salt and pepper, to taste
08 - 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

→ Cooking Fats

09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon butter

→ Garnish

11 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
02 - Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest before slicing.
03 - In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add honey and black pepper, simmer 2-3 minutes. Pour in heavy cream, bring to simmer and cook 3-4 minutes until thickened. Add pasta water if needed for consistency.
04 - Add cooked pasta to the skillet with sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add sliced chicken and toss to combine.
05 - Divide among plates and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Save some pasta water - it helps thin the sauce if needed
02 - You can adjust the pepper amount to control the heat level
03 - Perfect for meal prep and reheats well