Creamy Garlic Pasta with Honey-Glazed Grilled Chicken is the kind of dish that feels like a hug and a high-five all at once. It’s rich, savory, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another bite. The pasta is coated in a velvety garlic Alfredo-style sauce—made from butter, cream, and Parmesan—while the chicken is grilled to perfection and finished with a sticky glaze of honey, soy sauce, and garlic that caramelizes beautifully.
This dish is all about balance: the creamy pasta soothes, the grilled chicken excites, and the herbs on top bring freshness and color. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. The textures are irresistible—tender chicken with a slight char, silky noodles, and a sauce that clings just right.
Whether plated individually or served family-style, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And yes, Hassan—this one deserves a permanent spot in your savory favorites collection.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Serves 4–6)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- Pinch of salt
For the Pasta:
- 400g spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for serving
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, pepper, paprika, and salt. Add chicken and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Brush with leftover marinade during grilling for extra glaze. Let rest, then slice into strips.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and seasoning. Cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Plate & Garnish
Serve pasta on plates or a large platter. Top with sliced grilled chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes to the glaze or sauce for heat.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
- Protein Swap: Use grilled shrimp or tofu for variation.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Sauce and chicken can be prepped a day ahead.
