One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

If you’re looking for a cozy and flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes, then you’ll absolutely adore this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug with its sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s also a real crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed family gathering, this recipe fits right in—making everything feel just a little more special.

What makes this dish shine is its balance of flavors and textures. The sticky honey BBQ sauce clings to every noodle while the juicy chicken adds heartiness to the meal. Plus, since it all comes together in one pan, cleanup is a breeze! If you’re on the hunt for quick dinner solutions or one-pot pasta recipes, this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne will become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time spent enjoying your meal with loved ones instead of washing up!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet BBQ flavor, making it an easy choice for picky eaters.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
• Delicious Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, so enjoy this dish for lunch too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! With just a few pantry staples and some fresh chicken, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time. Let’s gather what we need:

• 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 a little heat
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for topping

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have or what you’re in the mood for. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option that still packs flavor.
• Change up the pasta: Penne isn’t your only option! Try using rotini or farfalle for fun shapes.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like your food with an 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. Once hot, add your chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing the chicken until golden brown not only adds flavor but also creates those delicious brown bits at the bottom of the pan that will enhance our sauce later.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

After removing the chicken from the skillet, pour in your low-sodium chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This step is crucial as it infuses additional flavor into your sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in your honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if you’re using it. Let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully before we add our penne.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add uncooked penne to the skillet. Pour in enough water to barely cover the pasta—about 1 to 1½ cups should do it. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed that yummy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Flavors

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together. Allow it to simmer for another couple of minutes so all those flavors can mingle perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can make it just right!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

To finish off your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, sprinkle chopped parsley on top along with crushed red pepper flakes for some heat if desired. A handful of shredded cheese makes everything even more delightful! Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with the right techniques, and I’m here to share some tips to help you master this delicious dish!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs gives you moist, flavorful bites. They hold up well during cooking and pair beautifully with the tangy sauce.

• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping up the browned bits from the skillet adds depth of flavor to your sauce. This step enhances the overall taste by incorporating those caramelized flavors into your dish.

• Watch the Pasta: Keep an eye on your penne while it simmers. Stirring occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, leading to a perfectly textured pasta that clings beautifully to the sauce.

• Adjust Your Seasonings: Always taste as you go! Depending on your BBQ sauce’s sweetness or saltiness, you might want to tweak the seasoning for a perfectly balanced dish.

• Make It Your Own: Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. They add vibrant flavors that complement the chicken and pasta wonderfully.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this delightful dish is all about enhancing its appeal while keeping things simple. Here are some ideas to present your creation beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens up each bite.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor profile and give an exciting kick.
• Shredded cheese: Topped with cheddar or mozzarella, melted cheese creates a creamy finish that melds harmoniously with the honey BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast to your tender pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious side provides a vibrant green splash of color and balances out the richness of the dish with its fresh flavor.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that complements the savory notes of the chicken penne.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy side can add a nice texture contrast while providing a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that harmonizes beautifully with BBQ dishes.

Enjoy crafting this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, and happy cooking! Your family will love this convenient yet indulgent meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it also stores well, making it ideal for busy weekdays or cozy dinners at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this delightful recipe.

Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with different pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas can vary.

What can I substitute for chicken in One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

You can swap out chicken for plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

How long does One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes which add a mild kick. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re whipping it up for dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!