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, or family-friendly food ideas—this dish delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal even on the busiest nights.
• Minimal cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Family-friendly: The sweet and tangy flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of honey BBQ sauce with tender chicken and pasta creates a comforting dish everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You’ll find everything you need for this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne right in your pantry or 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 heat if desired
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for topping

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! You can mix it up based on what you have at home or what flavors you’re craving.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even some sautéed chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, corn, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta: Swap out penne for your favorite type of pasta like rotini or farfalle.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for some extra kick.

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. Adding the chicken now allows it to sear beautifully. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder before cooking. Searing until golden brown not only locks in juices but also adds depth of flavor.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Once your chicken is cooked through and set aside, pour in low-sodium chicken broth. This step is crucial—it helps lift all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Those bits are packed with flavor!

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce (if using). Let this simmer for 2–3 minutes; it thickens slightly while infusing richness into your dish. The aroma is simply irresistible at this stage!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now add uncooked penne along with enough water to barely cover it (about 1 to 1½ cups). Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta becomes tender; this allows those fantastic flavors from the sauce to soak into every bite.

Step 5: Combine Flavors

Return your cooked chicken back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer together for another couple of minutes. This melding of flavors is what makes this dish so comforting.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped parsley and sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving!

And there you have it—a delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne that’s sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every last bite!

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

Creating a delightful meal is all about the little tricks that elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pro tips to ensure your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, like parsley, and high-quality honey BBQ sauce can significantly enhance the flavor profile of this dish, giving it a more vibrant taste.

• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to balance out the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce. This adds depth and brightness to your dish.

• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scraping up those brown bits from the bottom of the skillet after cooking the chicken is crucial. It adds a rich umami flavor to your sauce that you wouldn’t want to miss!

• Experiment with Pasta: While penne works beautifully, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. Different shapes will change up the texture and mouthfeel of your dish.

• Make It Your Own: Add in veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during cooking for extra nutrients and color. This will not only make it healthier but also add more layers of flavor.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this delectable One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your family and friends while enjoying this comforting meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color that brightens up each bite.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, topping with crushed red pepper flakes provides a spicy kick that complements the sweet BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Shredded Cheese: Consider adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top right before serving for an ooey-gooey finish that everyone loves!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The classic combo! Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad of mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the pasta and keeps things fresh.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition to your meal. Choose favorites like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta dish, providing both texture and flavor without overwhelming it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an amazing dinner experience with your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish with a cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I adjust the flavors in One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Feel free to tweak the ingredients by adding more spices or using different sauces. Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun!

Can I use whole grain penne instead of regular pasta?

Absolutely! Whole grain penne adds more fiber and nutrients while still being delicious. Just ensure you adjust cooking time as necessary.

Is there a substitute for honey BBQ sauce?

You can mix equal parts honey (or maple syrup) with your favorite BBQ sauce for a quick substitute if you can’t find honey BBQ sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with cozy flavors that bring comfort after a long day. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love!