Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream

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Golden seared chicken bites glazed with a sticky honey garlic sauce, resting on a creamy Parmesan-tossed bed of al dente rotini pasta. This dish is the kind of weeknight magic that balances sweet, savory, and rich in one comforting bowl.

Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream is the perfect combination of hearty and indulgent. The rotini’s spiraled ridges capture every bit of the creamy Parmesan sauce, while the juicy chicken chunks bring a pop of garlicky sweetness. With just the right amount of char and fresh parsley, this pasta feels gourmet yet approachable.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Rotini is a great choice because its spirals hold onto the sauce perfectly. But if you’re out of rotini, you can also try fusilli, penne, or even farfalle. The key is to use a pasta that has ridges or curves to soak in the rich Parmesan cream and catch those little chicken morsels.

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Ingredients for the Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream

• Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized chunks for even cooking and maximum surface area for the sauce to cling to.
• Honey: Brings that signature sweet stickiness to balance the savory garlic and tangy cream.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced, garlic adds bold flavor that defines the sauce.
• Soy sauce: Enhances the savory depth of the honey garlic glaze.
• Heavy cream: Forms the luscious base of the Parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated finely to melt smoothly into the cream and create a rich, nutty layer.
• Butter: Helps build both the honey garlic glaze and the creamy sauce.
• Rotini pasta: Ideal for holding creamy sauces, this twisted shape ensures flavor in every bite.
• Salt & black pepper: To season the chicken and balance the sauce.
• Fresh parsley: A pop of green and a hint of herbaceous freshness for garnish.

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How To Make the Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each side until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes total. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Honey Garlic Glaze

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant. Stir in honey and soy sauce, then return the chicken to the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken. Turn off the heat and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps loosen and bind the sauce if needed.

Step 4: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In a separate pan or clean skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Stir in heavy cream and let it warm through. Gradually add grated Parmesan, whisking constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If it thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rotini into the Parmesan cream sauce and stir until fully coated. Plate the pasta and top generously with the honey garlic chicken. Garnish with more Parmesan and fresh parsley.

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Serving and Storing Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Leftovers? No problem. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and revive that creamy texture. Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this dish. They stay juicy and absorb the honey garlic glaze well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Is there a dairy-free version?

For a dairy-free twist, swap the cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. It’ll slightly alter the flavor but still be delicious.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes. Even Worcestershire sauce in small amounts can add depth.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not ideal due to the cream sauce, which can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey garlic glaze or a few dashes of hot sauce.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Twisted Pasta with Honey Garlic Chicken and Parmesan Cream, try these next:

• Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a spicy southern kick.
• Tuscan Garlic Shrimp Rotini with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
• One-Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta for a tangy and light twist.
• Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Alfredo for a savory depth.
• Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Penne for a bold, hearty option.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rotini or another pasta shape? Did you go bold with spice or keep it creamy and classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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