Honey’s flavor varies greatly depending on the type and region. Clover honey is the mildest and most common variety and is sold in most grocery stores. Taste whichever honey you use first to decide if you want to use additional flavors like orange zest and cinnamon when making the syrup. The proportions in this recipe were developed for use with vodka. But if you would like to substitute another spirit such as bourbon or rum, you may want to use slightly less honey to adjust for the spirit’s natural sweet flavor.

Try any dried herb you like in place of the thyme. Marjoram, oregano, rosemary, or sage are all good choices.
*Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of bone-in breasts. Grill them until just done, about five minutes per side over moderately high heat.
*Use a quartered chicken instead of bone-in breasts. Cook the breast sections as directed in Step 2 and allow thirteen minutes per side for the leg quarters.

Cheese often turns stringy when tossed with hot pasta. Broiling the dish after tossing melts the strings into a smooth sauce. An added bonus: that irresistible brown crust.