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

• Easy cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Family-friendly flavors: The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce makes this dish a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile ingredients: Use what you have on hand to make this dish your own; it’s all about flexibility!
• Comforting and hearty: Combining protein and pasta means this dish is filling enough to satisfy any hunger.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you’ll use simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Pasta

• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

For Garnish

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

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference. You could also try turkey or tofu for a different twist!
• Change the pasta shape: If you don’t have penne, try using rotini or fusilli for fun shapes that hold onto the sauce nicely.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some jalapeños to kick it up a notch!

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. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing the chicken until golden brown not only enhances its flavor but also gives it that beautiful color. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze your pan. This step is crucial as it helps lift all those delicious brown bits left from searing the chicken. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance your dish!

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in your honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if you’re using it. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while creating a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add your uncooked penne! Pour it into the skillet along with enough water to just cover it (about 1 to 1½ cups). Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender; this will give it an amazing flavor as it absorbs all those tasty juices.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet and give everything a good stir. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes so all those wonderful flavors can combine perfectly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your dish and adjust any seasonings as needed. Serve it warm with garnishes like chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or shredded cheese if desired!

Enjoy every bite of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!

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

Cooking should be fun and rewarding, so here are some tips to help you nail this delicious dish!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs can result in juicier bites compared to breasts. They hold moisture better and add richness to the dish.

• Don’t skip deglazing: After browning the chicken, deglazing the pan with broth captures all those tasty brown bits. This adds depth of flavor to your sauce that you won’t want to miss!

• Adjust the water for pasta: The amount of water varies depending on your heat level and pan size. Start with enough to just cover the penne, and keep an eye on it as it cooks.

• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to swap out honey BBQ sauce for your favorite flavors, like teriyaki or sweet chili sauce. Each variation will give a unique twist to your meal.

• Add veggies for more nutrition: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during cooking. Not only do they add color, but they also boost the nutritional value of your one-pan wonder!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation can elevate any meal, making it feel extra special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and brightness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these flakes can enhance the BBQ flavor and provide a spicy kick.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top can melt beautifully into the warm pasta, adding creaminess and richness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. The buttery garlic flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy chicken penne.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious crunch that balances out the softness of the pasta.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing can refresh your palate after enjoying this hearty dish.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the smoky BBQ flavors beautifully while offering a satisfying texture contrast.

Enjoy creating and savoring this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Your family will thank you for this delicious meal that comes together effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken penne into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; you can also microwave until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this tasty dish!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute penne with any other pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary.

How spicy is the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

The spiciness primarily comes from crushed red pepper flakes, which you can adjust according to your taste. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder dish!

Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different ingredients.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors that bring everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making it and don’t forget to share your delicious results!