Name: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 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; Crushed red pepper flakes; Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

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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

One-pan convenience: No need to dirty multiple pots. Everything cooks together in one skillet!
Flavor explosion: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and tender chicken creates mouthwatering bites.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, dinner is on the table in just 30 minutes.
Customizable: Make it your own with different proteins or veggies based on what you have.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

For the Chicken and Pasta

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

For the Seasoning

1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

Chopped parsley
Crushed red pepper flakes
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to help you tailor it to your taste:

Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or chicken sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables: Toss in some broccoli florets or bell peppers during cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add chopped jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.
Go vegan: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth to make this dish plant-based.

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. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing the chicken until it’s golden brown not only locks in moisture but also adds depth to the flavor. Once cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up those tasty brown bits stuck at the bottom—this will enhance your sauce’s flavor! Allow it to simmer briefly as you incorporate those flavors.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 5: Combine Flavors

Finally, return your perfectly seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another couple of minutes so that all those delightful flavors can combine.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Give everything a taste! Adjust seasoning as needed before serving. If desired, top with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes for some kick, and shredded cheese for added creaminess.

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

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

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to a whole new level!

Choose the right chicken cut: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds moisture and flavor to the dish. They tend to stay tender even when cooked longer, ensuring every bite is juicy.
Don’t skip deglazing: Scraping up the brown bits from the pan after cooking the chicken infuses your sauce with deeper flavors. This step is key for achieving that rich, savory profile!
Adjust the liquid levels: Depending on your pasta brand, you might need slightly more or less water. Always check the pasta package instructions and adjust accordingly so it cooks perfectly without becoming mushy.
Experiment with spice levels: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch! This personal touch makes the dish uniquely yours.
Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all those delicious flavors together. It also gives you time to set the table and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation can transform an ordinary meal into something special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up each bite.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle some on top just before serving for an extra kick!
Shredded cheese: A generous handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella can make this dish even more comforting and creamy.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread complements the tangy flavors of the pasta while providing a satisfying crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate, along with a nice contrast in texture.
Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness that balances out the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots bring sweetness and earthiness that pairs beautifully with the BBQ flavors.

Now you’re ready to whip up your own One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cool the dish completely before freezing.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Alternatively, warm in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as rotini or fusilli.

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

To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or include fresh jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

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

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing your meal without much extra effort.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in one easy skillet. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, it’s hard not to love this recipe. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful meal with this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. This dish combines juicy chicken, coated in a smoky and sweet honey BBQ sauce, simmered alongside tender penne pasta—all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this recipe delivers sticky, savory-sweet bites that are sure to satisfy and impress. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty dish ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving a cozy meal for yourself, this one-pan wonder is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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
Crushed red pepper flakes
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sear until golden brown; remove and set aside.
Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up brown bits to enhance the flavor.
Stir in honey BBQ sauce (and soy sauce if desired) and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add uncooked penne and enough water to cover it slightly. Cover the skillet and let cook for about 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and mix well; let it simmer for another couple of minutes before serving.