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

• Easy to prepare: With just one pan needed, you can whip this up without feeling overwhelmed!
• Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and tender chicken makes every bite delicious.
• Family-friendly: Kids will love the sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for dinner time.
• Quick cooking time: Get this on the table in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile leftovers: If you have any left over (which is rare!), it makes for fantastic next-day lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You might already have some of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need for your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne:

• 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 kick
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! The beauty of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is its flexibility. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option that still holds great flavor!
• Change up the pasta: Try using whole wheat penne or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your preference.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach when simmering the pasta for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your meal.

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. This step is crucial because searing the chicken gives it that delicious golden-brown color while sealing in juices. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 7–10 minutes.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Pour in your low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up those tasty brown bits stuck at the bottom; they add so much flavor to your dish!

Step 3: Add Sauces

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add your uncooked penne! Pour it into the skillet along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes while stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beautifully seared chicken back into the skillet after the pasta has cooked through. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another couple of minutes so all those amazing flavors combine nicely.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Give everything a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you’d like, sprinkle on some chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes before serving. And don’t forget to top it off with shredded cheese if you desire—it melts perfectly into every bite!

There you have it—a deliciously simple One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne that’s sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy!

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

Making this dish as delicious as possible is easy with a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to elevate your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne experience.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Selecting boneless, skinless thighs adds juiciness and flavor, making the dish richer. If you prefer chicken breasts, just be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out more easily.

• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scraping up the brown bits from searing the chicken adds depth and richness to your sauce. This step ensures that every bit of flavor gets incorporated into the dish!

• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey BBQ sauce based on your taste preference. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more; if you prefer a tangier flavor, consider incorporating a splash of vinegar.

• Add Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost and color, toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach when adding the penne. They will cook down nicely while adding vibrant flavors.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it gives you a moment to set the table!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only flavorful but also visually appealing! Here are some great ideas on how to present this cozy dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle these on top for an extra kick.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella melted on top creates a delightful creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is always a hit alongside pasta dishes.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and crunchiness of steamed broccoli complement the creamy textures of the penne beautifully while adding nutrients.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky BBQ flavors.

Enjoy this delicious one-pan meal with your loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers that taste just as good as the first time around. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your tasty creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken penne in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken penne into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing if you’ve added cheese, as it may not thaw well.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen penne in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you make the most of your cooking experience.

Can I use whole wheat penne for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients while still delivering that delicious flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook.

What can I substitute if I don’t have honey BBQ sauce for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

If you’re out of honey BBQ sauce, you can easily make a quick alternative by mixing equal parts ketchup and honey or maple syrup with a splash of soy sauce. This will mimic the sweet and tangy flavor you’re looking for!

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

The level of spiciness depends on how much crushed red pepper flakes you choose to add. You can adjust it according to your preference—feel free to skip them entirely for a milder dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne becomes a new favorite in your household! It’s not only easy to prepare but also delivers a delightful explosion of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!