# What You Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
03 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Pasta
07 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Sauce
08 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
09 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
11 - 3 tbsp honey
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
14 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 1/2 tsp salt
16 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
17 - Juice of 1/2 lime
→ Garnish
18 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
19 - Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
02 - While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
04 - Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
05 - Stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and honey. Cook for 1 minute to meld the flavors.
06 - Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add salt and pepper. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
07 - Stir in the Parmesan cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the lime juice and stir to combine.
08 - Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through and well coated. Serve immediately, topped with chopped cilantro and additional Parmesan if desired.
