After I made my Sticky Honey Garlic Pasta, I knew it wouldn’t be long before I added chicken to the mix! Tender seasoned chicken breasts tossed with noodles in that sweet, garlicky sauce make for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes. Every bite of the sticky honey garlic chicken pasta is sticky, flavorful, and perfectly balanced between sweet, savory, and just a touch of heat. For another chicken and pasta dinner, check out my French Onion Chicken Pasta next!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seasoned simply with paprika, salt, and pepper, then seared to golden perfection. You could use chicken thighs, rotisserie chicken, or leftover shredded chicken to save time.
- Honey Garlic Sauce: The base of the flavor comes from honey, soy sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of garlic salt. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt. You can swap apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar or white vinegar in a pinch.
- Red Pepper Flakes: These add a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the honey. Adjust to your spice preference or leave out entirely for a mild version.
- Broth & Cream: Chicken broth and heavy cream make up the cooking liquid for the pasta, creating a flavorful base that thickens into a creamy sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
- Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti soaks up the sauce beautifully, but linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair will also work. Gluten-free pasta works, too; just check the package for cook time, as it may need a few minutes less.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Cornstarch mixed with water helps the sauce thicken at the end, giving it that glossy, sticky finish.
- Parmesan & Garnishes: Parmesan adds savory richness, fresh parsley brightens each bite, and extra red pepper flakes add a little kick if you like it spicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or penne all work beautifully in this sauce.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for more heat.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Yes! Sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms all pair beautifully with the sauce. Add them during the last few minutes of pasta cooking so they stay tender-crisp.
Can I make this recipe for more people?
Sure! Just double or triple the ingredients, making sure your skillet or pan is large enough to cook the pasta evenly in the sauce. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Serving Ideas
- Roasted Parmesan Green Beans add color and freshness
- Simple Side Salad
- Easy Dinner Rolls or Cheesy Butter Swim Biscuits, perfect for soaking up the extra sauce!
- Roasted Potatoes or Country Mashed Potatoes
How to Store Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta
Room Temperature: Keep covered for up to 2 hours.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
Freezer: Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, (about 1 pound total), pounded to an even thickness
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Honey Garlic Pasta
- ⅓ cup (113 g) honey
- ¼ cup (64 g) soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 cups (16 ounces / 480 g) chicken broth
- ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ¼ cup (25 g) Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken 5 minutes on one side. Then, flip the chicken over, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Tent with aluminum foil to keep warm as you make the pasta.
Pasta
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- To a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked spaghetti to the skillet, fanning it out or breaking it in half if needed, so it lays mostly flat. Use tongs to gently stir and separate the noodles, making sure they’re coated and submerged in the liquid.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet with the pasta. Stir well, then immediately stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and arrange them on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra red pepper flakes, if desired.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This pasta is sticky, flavorful, and quick! I love the chicken with it.
Elizabeth
I could devour the pasta on its own, but I do really like the added chicken on top. It's more filling.
Stephanie
The honey garlic sauce is perfectly sweet but not overpowering. This is a delicious dinner idea!
Bella
I love the kick from red pepper flakes. And, the seasoned chicken goes well with the flavorful pasta.
This is easy quick for a weeknight meal, and it is delicious, you could also serve over rice.