Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta

Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta is a delicious main dish that promises to please everyone at the table. This recipe combines juicy, crispy chicken tossed in a rich and sweet honey garlic sauce with creamy rotini pasta. The blend of flavors and textures creates a meal that is hearty and satisfying. It not only tastes great but also looks appealing, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. You can easily prepare it in around an hour, making it a practical choice for weeknight meals or special occasions.

The star of the show here is the crispy honey garlic chicken. Each piece is coated in a light and crispy batter, then glazed in a sweet and tangy sauce that will have you licking your plate. Add to that the creamy pasta, which complements the chicken perfectly, and you have a winner dish. This combination is sure to impress your loved ones and make them eager for second helpings!

How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
2 eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper
Oil for frying
⅓ cup honey
¼ cup soy sauce
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp vinegar (rice or apple cider)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water
12 oz rotini pasta
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
½ cup reserved pasta water

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Bread the chicken by mixing flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip chicken pieces in beaten eggs and coat with the flour mixture again.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. To make the honey garlic sauce, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and vinegar in the pan. Simmer and thicken with the cornstarch slurry. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce to coat.
5. For the creamy rotini pasta, sauté minced garlic in butter and olive oil. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Toss in the cooked pasta, using reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Plate the pasta, top with honey garlic chicken, and garnish as desired.

How to Serve Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta

Serve your Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken on a bed of creamy rotini pasta for a beautiful presentation. You can garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

How to Store Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta

To store leftovers, place the chicken and pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to revive the sauce.

Tips for the Best Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken & Creamy Rotini Pasta

For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is hot before frying. You can check this by adding a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles right away, you’re ready. Adjust the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce to your taste by adding more or less honey. Finally, don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps make the sauce creamy and helps it cling to the pasta.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to switch out the rotini pasta for other shapes like penne or farfalle. For added vegetables, you can toss in some spinach or broccoli into the creamy pasta mix. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk, though it may be less creamy.

Can I make the chicken spicy?
Absolutely! You can add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

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