Honeymoon Chicken Pasta (Tropical Twist On Marry Me Chicken Pasta)
If you love the classic “Marry Me Chicken Pasta,” then you’re going to swoon over this Honeymoon Chicken Pasta! Inspired by tropical honeymoon destinations, this dish is a creamy, dreamy escape with hints of coconut, a touch of pineapple, and just the right amount of heat.
The rich and velvety sauce, made with coconut milk and Parmesan, coats tender, juicy chicken and al dente pasta. A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of toasted coconut take this dish to the next level. Every bite feels like a little getaway to paradise!
Whether you’re cooking a romantic dinner for two or making a fun, family-friendly meal, this dish is sure to impress. It’s indulgent but light enough to keep you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy.
Get ready to fall in love with this sweet, savory, and creamy pasta that brings tropical flavors straight to your dinner table. It’s perfect for date nights, special occasions, or just when you need a little taste of vacation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy yet light: The combination of coconut milk and cream creates a luscious sauce without being too heavy.
- Sweet & Savory Balance: The hint of pineapple juice pairs beautifully with garlic, cheese, and spice.
- Tropical Flavors: A fresh and unexpected twist that makes this pasta feel like a mini getaway.
- Easy to Make: Comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for a quick but impressive meal.
Perfect Pairings
This Honeymoon Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with:
- A refreshing coconut mojito or pineapple-infused cocktail
- Garlic bread or a toasted baguette for dipping
- A light tropical fruit salad with mango and papaya
- A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Riesling
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh lime juice for the best zesty flavor—bottled just won’t be the same.
- For extra richness, add a little more Parmesan or a splash of coconut cream.
- Want it spicier? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha.
- Don’t overcook the pasta! Keeping it al dente helps it absorb the sauce perfectly.
Honeymoon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin cutlets)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for a twist
- Juice of 1/2 a lime
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish
- Fresh cilantro or basil for topping
- Extra lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, heavy cream, and pineapple juice, stirring to combine. Stir in Parmesan cheese, honey, lime juice, fresh basil, salt, and ground ginger. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine & Serve
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help coat everything in the creamy sauce. Serve warm, garnished with toasted coconut flakes, fresh cilantro or basil, and extra lime wedges.
Common Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Try swapping the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Omit the Parmesan and heavy cream, and use extra coconut milk for a fully dairy-free dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of coconut milk to keep it creamy.
What other pasta shapes work best?
While fettuccine and linguine work great, you can also use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
Alternative Variations
- Hawaiian Honeymoon Pasta: Add grilled pineapple chunks and crispy bacon for extra tropical vibes.
- Lemon Basil Honeymoon Pasta: Swap pineapple juice for lemon juice and add extra basil for a fresh Mediterranean feel.
- Vegan Honeymoon Pasta: Use tofu instead of chicken, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
This Honeymoon Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort food and tropical vacation flavors! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a meal that feels like a treat, this dish is sure to impress.
