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

• One-pan convenience: Save time on cleanup with this simple one-pan dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and tender chicken creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Family favorite: With its tasty flavors and fun pasta shape, this dish appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Quick prep time: Spend just 10 minutes getting everything together before letting it simmer to perfection.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a fantastic meal. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

• 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 some heat)
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or what your family enjoys.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option or try turkey for a different flavor.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process for extra nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Change the pasta shape: While penne works wonderfully here, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand!

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial because searing the chicken helps develop those delicious golden-brown bits that add depth to your dish. Once the oil is hot, add your chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sear until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 6–8 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside while you create the sauce.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while scraping up any flavorful brown bits left behind from searing the chicken. This deglazing step adds incredible flavor to your sauce! Next, stir in the honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes; this lets all those great flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time for the uncooked penne! Add it into the skillet along with enough water to barely cover the pasta—about 1 to 1½ cups should do it. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender but still has a bit of bite; this will ensure it’s not mushy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet with the pasta once it’s cooked through. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so all those delightful flavors can combine perfectly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Give everything a taste! Adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Finally, if desired, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top along with crushed red pepper flakes and shredded cheese for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Enjoy every warm bite of this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s sure to become a new favorite around your dinner table!

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

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with the right tips in your back pocket!

• Use quality chicken: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your dish, making every bite juicy and satisfying.
• Don’t skip the deglazing: Scraping up the brown bits from the skillet after searing the chicken adds depth and richness to your sauce, ensuring a more flavorful final product.
• Stir occasionally: While simmering the pasta, giving it a gentle stir now and then prevents sticking and helps ensure that every piece of pasta gets coated in that delicious honey BBQ sauce.
• Adjust sauce to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey BBQ sauce based on your personal preference for sweetness or smokiness—it’s all about making it just right for you!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious meal.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation can make a meal even more enjoyable, and this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is no exception. Here are some simple ways to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add these flakes on top for an exciting kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of cheese melted on top creates a creamy finish that enhances the overall comfort factor of this cozy meal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch while complementing the flavors of your pasta perfectly.
• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies are not only delicious but also add an extra dose of nutrients and texture to round out your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family or friends with your delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only a delight to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making your busy days a little bit easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool down before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months. For best quality, consume within one month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of penne in the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time as needed!

What can I substitute for honey BBQ sauce in the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can mix tomato sauce with honey and a touch of liquid smoke or use your favorite homemade BBQ sauce recipe. The key is to maintain that sweet and tangy flavor profile!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! If you enjoy some heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as much as I do! It’s a special dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also brings ease to your mealtime routine. The combination of smoky sweetness and tender pasta creates a delightful experience each time you dig in. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!