One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Craving a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that won’t leave you with a pile of dishes? This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is the answer. Juicy, golden-seared chicken is coated in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce and simmered alongside tender penne pasta, all in a single skillet. It’s one of those easy dinner ideas that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend food craving. Think sticky, savory-sweet bites, a silky sauce that clings to every noodle, and a whole lot of soul-satisfying flavor. Whether you’re searching for an easy recipe, a one-pot pasta dish, or family-friendly food ideas—this dish delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan! Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this meal fits perfectly into busy nights.
• Flexible Ingredients: Use what you have on hand for an easy twist.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of BBQ sauce and cheese makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine. You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen!

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for garnish)
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to your taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or cubed tofu for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Swap penne with rotini or farfalle—whatever you have on hand!
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for some heat.

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sear until golden brown and cooked through. This step not only locks in flavor but also gives your chicken that beautiful color we all love.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan—scraping up those delicious brown bits left behind from searing. This adds depth to your sauce and enhances the overall flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in the honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if you’re using it. Let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This allows all those flavors to mingle together beautifully!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked penne pasta along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes while stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender. This method ensures that your pasta absorbs all that yummy sauce.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes so that all those flavors can combine perfectly. This is where your dish transforms into something truly special! Taste it and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy

Once done, sprinkle with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and add shredded cheese on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Cooking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne turns out absolutely delicious.

• Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken thighs or breasts will give you the juiciest texture and flavor. Frozen chicken can work too, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

• Don’t skip deglazing: After searing the chicken, deglazing with chicken broth helps lift those flavorful brown bits from the pan, adding depth to your sauce. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!

• Adjust the sauce to your taste: Feel free to tweak the honey BBQ sauce with additional spices or ingredients like hot sauce for a kick. Personalizing the flavor profile can make this dish feel uniquely yours.

• Stir occasionally: While simmering the pasta, remember to stir it occasionally. This helps prevent sticking and ensures that every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an even tastier meal for you and your loved ones!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation is key when serving up this delightful dish! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, there are plenty of ways to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, topping your penne with crushed red pepper flakes offers both flavor and visual appeal.
• Shredded cheese: Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella right before serving creates a melty finish that enhances creaminess and richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft pasta.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the penne.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly steamed will not only add vibrant color but also provide essential nutrients alongside your hearty meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the tangy BBQ flavor beautifully while offering a comforting side option.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress at dinner time! Enjoy every scrumptious bite of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or planned lunches. You can easily whip it up in advance and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or sealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini or use plant-based proteins such as tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

How can I adjust the sweetness of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey BBQ sauce used. You can also add more spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance the savory elements.

Can I use whole wheat penne in this recipe?

Yes! Whole wheat penne is a great alternative that adds more fiber. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly from regular penne.

What should I serve with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

This dish stands well on its own, but you could pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies for added color and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors that comfort and satisfy. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones. Happy cooking!