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

• One-Pan Wonder: Get delicious flavors without the mess! Cooking everything in one pan means minimal cleanup.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tasty combination of BBQ chicken and pasta.
• Quick Prep Time: In just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner on the table!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and reheat for busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple! You’ll find that these ingredients are not only wholesome but also packed with flavor. Gather them up to make this delightful dish.

• 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 some heat
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a cheesy finish

Variations

One of the best things about this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Change the pasta: Penne is great, but any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli works well too.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like things hot, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some jalapeños!

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 lovely golden brown color and locks in all those juicy flavors. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan by scraping up any brown bits left from searing. These bits are full of flavor! Stir in your honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce (if using) and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend those delicious flavors together.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked penne to the skillet along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover and simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the seared chicken back into the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer together for another couple of minutes. This step allows the chicken to soak up the tangy BBQ goodness while merging with those perfectly cooked noodles.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Taste your creation and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top along with crushed red pepper flakes if desired. A sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving will make this dish extra creamy and delicious!

Now gather your loved ones around the table because this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is ready to impress! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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

Cooking this delightful dish is not just about following the recipe; it’s also about making it your own! Here are some pro tips to ensure your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs will yield a juicier result compared to breasts. The added fat keeps the meat moist, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

• Don’t skip deglazing: After searing the chicken, deglazing the skillet with chicken broth helps release those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step adds depth and richness to your sauce, making every bite more delicious.

• Adjust pasta water wisely: Adding just enough water to cover the penne ensures that it cooks evenly and absorbs all that delicious honey BBQ sauce. Too much water can dilute flavors, while too little might leave your pasta undercooked.

• Customize seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Feel free to tweak the amount of smoked paprika or garlic powder based on your preferences. A little extra spice or a hint of sweetness can make a big difference!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking gives flavors a chance to meld together. Plus, it makes serving easier as the pasta has time to absorb any remaining sauce.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving up this dish can be just as fun as preparing it! With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, you’ll want to present it in a way that highlights its appeal. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful meal:

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh element that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper not only enhances flavor but also makes for an eye-catching presentation.
• Shredded cheese: Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella just before serving for that gooey, melty finish that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. Its crunchy texture complements the soft penne beautifully.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a satisfying crunch alongside the tender pasta.
• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: These naturally sweet bites pair wonderfully with the savory notes in your dish, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Now you’re ready to dig in and enjoy this comforting one-pan wonder! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It stores beautifully and makes for easy reheating, so you can enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without any hassle.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the chicken and pasta separately to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
• You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you along your cooking journey!

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

Absolutely! Whole grain pasta can be used as a healthier alternative. 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?

You can mix ketchup with honey and a touch of vinegar as a quick substitute. Alternatively, homemade BBQ sauce works great too!

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 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add vegetables to One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach gives this dish extra nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the simmering step.

Is it possible to make this dish spicy?

Yes! You can adjust the spice level by adding crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Feel free to experiment according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet exciting. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do. Gather your loved ones around the table, share some laughs, and savor every sticky-sweet bite. Happy cooking!