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 clean-up: With everything cooked in one pan, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about the dishes afterward.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and spices creates a rich, mouth-watering taste that everyone will love.
• Kid-approved: This dish is packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s great for busy weeknights when time is short.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather what we need for this delicious meal!

• 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 touch of heat)
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for creamy goodness)

Variations

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

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Change the pasta type: Penne works perfectly here, but you can use any pasta you love—like fusilli or rotini!
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper flakes.

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 enhances its flavor but also gives it that lovely texture we all crave.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan—this means scraping up those delicious brown bits left behind. These bits are packed with flavor!

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Next, stir in your honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if using. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes. This step helps meld all those lovely flavors together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your uncooked penne pasta into the skillet along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally so everything cooks evenly; this is where all those flavors really come together!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir well and let everything simmer together for another couple of minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up all that tangy goodness from the sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning as needed—feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top along with crushed red pepper flakes if you like some extra heat!

And voilà! Your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is ready to be savored!

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

Cooking can be a breeze with the right techniques, and this recipe is no exception! Here are some pro tips to ensure your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything measured and chopped before you start cooking saves time and makes the process smoother.

• Use a non-stick skillet: This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and ensures easy cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about scrubbing pots.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning during cooking is crucial. It allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking, ensuring each bite is delicious.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste experience.

• Experiment with sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different BBQ sauces or adding spices for a unique twist on flavor. This keeps the dish exciting every time you make it!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this delightful pasta dish can elevate your dining experience! Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, here’s how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these add an extra kick and visual appeal.
• Shredded cheese: Melting some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top just before serving creates a creamy texture that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adds that comforting touch to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green side dish brings a nutritious element and balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides crunch and acidity to contrast with the savory pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and flavor diversity, making your meal even more satisfying.

Now you’re all set to create an exciting mealtime experience with your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Enjoy every sticky-sweet 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 at once and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days so much easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Ensure the dish has fully cooled before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

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

Absolutely! Whole wheat penne will work perfectly in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

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

If you don’t have honey BBQ sauce, you can mix ketchup with honey and a splash of vinegar for a quick alternative. Adjust according to your taste preferences!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes! Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist while keeping that delicious BBQ flavor intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as delightful to make as it is to eat! It’s a cozy dish that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor—perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all on your own. Enjoy every sticky, savory bite, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!