One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting yet exciting dinner that’s ready with minimal fuss, the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is going to become your new weeknight hero. This dish effortlessly combines succulent chicken pieces with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, all mingling with tender penne pasta in one glorious pan. It’s rich, flavorful, and oh so satisfying, making it ideal for anyone who loves meals packed with bold taste but without a mountain of dishes to clean up afterward.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne comes together quickly, but every element plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. From the juicy chicken pieces to the smoky paprika and creamy melted cheese, each component adds its own personality to the dish.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce’s tangy glaze and soak up all the flavors.
• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce: This is the star of the show, bringing sweetness paired with a smoky tang to every bite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture, ensuring the penne cooks to perfection without drying out.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): A depth enhancer that reinforces the umami in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and aromatic notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance all the flavors.
• Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional kick for those who like a little heat.
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese: Melts over the top, introducing creamy, gooey texture that makes every bite decadent.

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook until the edges turn golden brown and the chicken is cooked through but still juicy, about 5-7 minutes. Searing the chicken first locks in the flavors and creates a delicious caramelized crust that will infuse the entire dish.

Step 2: Add the Liquids and Pasta

Pour the chicken broth and honey BBQ sauce into the pan, then stir in the uncooked penne pasta. This step is crucial because the pasta will cook right in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all those amazing BBQ and smoky notes. If you’re using soy sauce for extra depth, add it now. Give everything a good stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes or until the penne is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Make sure the pasta cooks evenly and picks up that gorgeous tangy honey BBQ flavor. If the sauce gets too dry before the pasta is done, add a splash more chicken broth.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Heat

Once the penne is cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the pan just long enough for the cheese to melt into a luscious layer of gooey goodness. If you enjoy a bit of spice, now’s a perfect time to sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra zing.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Garnishes

Brighten up this hearty dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a pleasing burst of color but also lends a touch of herbal freshness that perfectly balances the rich flavors. For an added texture contrast and a pop of spice, don’t forget those crushed red pepper flakes if you like heat.

Side Dishes

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne stands proudly on its own, but pairing it with a crisp garden salad or some steamed green veggies can add freshness and lighten the meal. A side of garlic bread or warm buttery rolls is also a delightful companion, perfect for scooping up any luscious leftovers of the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner presentation, serve the pasta straight from your skillet to the table, letting guests dig in family-style. Alternatively, portion it out into individual bowls, topping each with a little extra cheese and parsley. For a casual twist, stuff the pasta and chicken mixture inside bell peppers and bake briefly for a unique serving idea that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to freezer-proof your dish, cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that pasta may soften a bit upon reheating, but it will still taste fantastic.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or microwave in short intervals until hot and bubbly. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to revive that creamy, cheesy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this dish?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well and provide a leaner option, but be careful not to overcook them, as thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy.

Is this recipe spicy?

The core recipe is mild and sweet with tangy BBQ flavor, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes to bring in some heat if you prefer a spicier kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while penne is ideal for catching the sauce, other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle will work just as well.

What can I substitute for honey BBQ sauce?

If you can’t find honey BBQ sauce, you can mix regular BBQ sauce with a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to sweeten and achieve that lovely tangy balance.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! Most kids love pasta and chicken, and the sweet honey BBQ sauce usually goes over well. Simply skip the crushed red pepper flakes for little ones.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne has quickly become one of my personal favorites because it combines bold, comforting flavors with ease and speed. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes dinner time something special without extra fuss. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover how deliciously simple weeknight dinners can be.

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