Honey-Infused Creamy Chicken Pasta with Crispy Bacon
Indulge in a delightful symphony of flavors with Honey-Infused Creamy Chicken Pasta! Tender chicken, creamy honey sauce and crispy bacon for unforgettable meal.
1poundboneless, skinless chicken breastscut into 1-inch cubes
1poundpasta(Fettuccine, Penne, or Linguine)
6slicesbacon
1tablespoonolive oil
2clovesgarlicminced
½cupheavy cream
¼cupwhole milk
2tablespoonshoney
¼cupgrated Parmesan cheese
1teaspoondried thyme
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
Optional: Spinach, Broccoli or Peas
Instructions
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside to cool. Once cooled, crumble into pieces. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Add Cheese and Honey: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and honey. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Notes
Adjust honey to taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add sauteed vegetables for added flavor. Garnish to add flair.