Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken

Creamy honey pepper chicken became my go-to recipe one evening when I was craving something sweet, savory, and comforting but didn’t want to order takeout so I decided to experiment by combining juicy seared chicken with a creamy sauce that had a touch of honey and plenty of black pepper and the result was so delicious that my family requested it again the very next day. Since then, it’s become a dinner favorite when we want a cozy, restaurant style meal right at home.

I love how the honey brings a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich creamy sauce and the bold bite of black pepper and when it’s poured over tender pasta or rice it turns into a dish that feels extra special yet is simple enough to make on a busy weeknight and that beautiful golden crust on the chicken makes every bite feel like a treat.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Chicken breasts – The main protein, juicy and perfectly seared.
• Heavy cream – The rich, silky base for the sauce.
• Honey – Adds a delicate sweetness to balance the peppery kick.
• Black pepper – Gives a bold, spicy edge to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Makes the sauce extra cheesy and savory.
• Butter – Helps get that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
• Garlic – Adds depth and aromatic flavor.
• Pasta or rice – The perfect base to soak up all that creamy sauce.
• Fresh parsley – For a fresh, colorful garnish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – To sear the chicken and prepare the sauce in one pan.
• Tongs – For flipping and moving the chicken easily.
• Mixing spoon – To stir the creamy sauce until smooth.
• Knife – For slicing the chicken.
• Pot – If serving with pasta or rice.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and plenty of black pepper so they get that bold, peppery crust.

Step 2

In a large skillet, I melt butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through, then set it aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, I add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

I pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5

Next, I whisk in honey and more black pepper to create that sweet and spicy balance, then stir in the Parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6

I return the sliced chicken to the skillet, coating it generously in the sauce and letting it heat through.

Step 7

I serve the chicken and sauce over pasta or rice and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips

If you want an even stronger pepper flavor, I recommend using freshly cracked black pepper for a bold finish. I also love adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the sauce!

Ways to Serve

I like serving creamy honey pepper chicken over pasta or rice to soak up every bit of the sauce. It’s also great with mashed potatoes or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Perfect for cozy dinners or even a special at home date night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make creamy honey pepper chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it and gently reheat on the stove before serving.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work beautifully.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try using coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this creamy honey pepper chicken a try! It’s sweet, peppery, and so comforting the perfect way to elevate an easy chicken dinner. I’d love to see your creations, so share your photos and save this recipe for your next cozy night in.

Happy Cooking!

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