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

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan and simple steps, you can whip this up in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and spices creates deliciously sticky bites everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the sweet tanginess, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time scrubbing dishes afterward.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and reheat for an effortless meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is super simple! You’ll find that these wholesome ingredients come together to create something truly special.

• 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 little kick
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for topping

Variations

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

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or even grilled tofu for a different twist.
• Change the pasta: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free penne for dietary needs.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you like heat!

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Begin by heating 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 helps lock in juices while giving it a beautiful golden color. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—then remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. This step is important as it helps deglaze the pan by scraping up all those flavorful brown bits left behind from searing the chicken. These bits add depth to your dish! Stir gently to incorporate them into your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Sauces

Now it’s time to stir in your honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce (if using). Let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. The combination of flavors will deepen as they meld together during this simmering phase.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked penne pasta along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta becomes tender and has absorbed some of that delicious sauce.

Step 5: Combine & Finish

Once your pasta is ready, return the seared chicken back to the skillet. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so all those flavors can blend beautifully. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning if needed!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Finally, serve your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne hot from the skillet! Garnish with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes for some heat if desired, and top with shredded cheese. Enjoy every hearty bite with your loved ones!

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

Making this dish is simple, but a few insider tips can elevate your experience and the flavors!

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts keeps the meat tender and juicy, which is essential for soaking up that delicious BBQ sauce.

• Don’t skip deglazing: Scraping up those brown bits from the skillet after cooking the chicken adds an extra layer of flavor to your sauce. It’s like a free upgrade to your dish!

• Adjust the sauce balance: If you prefer a bit more tang, feel free to add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. This can bring a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the honey.

• Cook pasta just right: Make sure to check your pasta a couple of minutes before the recommended cooking time. You want it al dente since it will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from heat.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar and mozzarella are classics, trying out pepper jack for some spice or gouda for smokiness can take this dish to new heights!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation can enhance any meal, and this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is no exception! Here are some delightful ways to serve it.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh herbaceous note that brightens each bite.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes provides both visual appeal and an extra kick.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top while it’s still warm allows it to melt slightly, creating an irresistible cheesy layer.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta dish. It’s great for scooping up those sticky bites and adds comforting richness.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli offers color and nutrition. Its slight bitterness balances well with the sweet BBQ sauce, making every bite harmonious.

• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy dressing complements the richness of the penne nicely. The crunch is a delightful contrast!

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides refreshing crunch and acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the dish. It’s also super easy to prepare in advance!

With these tips and serving ideas in mind, you’re all set for a cozy dinner experience that your family will adore! Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only a delightful dinner but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week, ensuring you always have a comforting dish ready when hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion 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.
• To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind while making this delicious dish!

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

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can substitute with rotini, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

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

If you’re craving some heat, sprinkle in more crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños during cooking. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the BBQ sauce for an extra kick!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later meals without compromising flavor.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a heartier meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s a heartwarming recipe that brings flavors together in such an effortless way. Perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners, it promises satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations—you might inspire someone else!