One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, you’ve come to the right place! This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. It combines tender chicken with a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, all mingling with perfectly cooked penne pasta in one skillet. The cleanup is minimal, and the flavors are incredible—just what you need after a long day.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but comfort food cravings are high. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this recipe will impress everyone while keeping things simple. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans—everything cooks together in one skillet!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ chicken.
• Quick prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Leftover friendly: This dish tastes just as good the next day, making it a great option for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients can be such a joy! For this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, we’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnishing

• Chopped parsley
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have in your kitchen or your personal preference. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or diced tofu for a different twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: If you don’t have penne on hand, any short pasta shape will work beautifully.
• Make it spicy: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to kick up the heat!

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. Once shimmering, add your chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing them gives that golden-brown crust which adds depth to your dish. Cook until fully done and then remove them from the skillet—this step is crucial for keeping your chicken juicy.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

With the skillet still warm, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and scrape up those tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor! Stir in your honey BBQ sauce (and soy sauce if you’re using it) and let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This helps meld those flavors together.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Next, add in your uncooked penne along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking everything together allows that rich sauce to infuse into each piece of pasta.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your pasta is tender, return the cooked chicken back into that flavorful mix. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes. This final step helps all those wonderful flavors blend beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning if needed with salt and pepper. Serve warm topped with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick, and shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy your cozy meal knowing you’ve made something truly special!

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

Cooking should be a joyous experience, and with these tips, you’ll make your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne even more delightful!

• Prep your ingredients beforehand: Having everything chopped and measured before you start cooking not only saves time but also ensures a smoother cooking process.

• Use high-quality BBQ sauce: A great honey BBQ sauce can elevate the dish tremendously. Look for options with natural ingredients to enhance flavor without added preservatives.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep your chicken juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Searing until golden brown and then simmering with the pasta will lock in moisture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or even a dash of extra BBQ sauce to suit your preferences.

• Experiment with pasta shapes: While penne is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other pasta types like rotini or farfalle for a fun twist on texture!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this dish can be almost as fun as making it! With its vibrant colors and hearty flavors, you’ll want to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, adding some crushed red pepper flakes will bring an exciting heat that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Shredded cheese: A generous handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella melts into the warm dish, adding creaminess and depth.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes for an irresistible pairing that’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: This bright green side adds a healthy touch while its mild flavor contrasts nicely with the rich pasta.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta dish, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that balances out the sweetness of the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delightful dish! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe to help you out!

Can I use gluten-free pasta in One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

How can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne spicier?

If you love a kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference!

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

Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option that still delivers amazing flavor.

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

A side salad or steamed vegetables pairs beautifully with this dish, offering freshness alongside the rich flavors of the pasta.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights and family gatherings alike. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy every flavorful bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and sides. Happy cooking!