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 magic: This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in just one skillet.
• Kid-approved flavors: The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce makes this dish irresistible for kids and adults alike.
• Quick and easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to table, it fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
• Versatile ingredients: The simple components are easy to find and can be adjusted based on what you have at home.
• Flavorful leftovers: If you have any left over (which is rare!), it reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These items come together to create something truly delicious without any fuss.

• 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, if desired

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Change the pasta: Penne is great, but you could also use fusilli or farfalle for fun shapes!
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach during cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced 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 your olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Adding chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder gives them that beautiful golden-brown color. Searing not only enhances their flavor but also creates lovely caramelization that adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Deglaze the Skillet

Once your chicken is cooked through and set aside, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up those tasty brown bits left behind. This step captures all that flavor stuck on the bottom of your skillet.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Now stir in your honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce (if using). Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully before adding the pasta.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your uncooked penne pasta along with enough water to barely cover it. Cover the skillet and let it simmer away for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks! This step ensures that your pasta cooks perfectly while absorbing all that tangy goodness from the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

After the pasta is tender, return your seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir well and let everything simmer together for another few minutes. This final step allows all those flavors to blend beautifully, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Taste your creation and adjust any seasonings as needed. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy, and shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this scrumptious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

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

Making the perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality BBQ sauce can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish, making each bite more delicious and satisfying.

• Adjust the spice level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños. This allows you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

• Cook pasta al dente: When simmering the penne, keep an eye on its texture. Cooking it just until al dente ensures it remains firm and absorbs the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.

• Experiment with sauces: While honey BBQ sauce is a winner, feel free to mix in other sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a fun twist. This keeps the recipe versatile and exciting for future meals.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, creating a richer taste that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and meal experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbal note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy an extra kick, offering crushed red pepper flakes at the table allows everyone to personalize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Simple and nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a nice crunch and vibrant color that pairs well with the richness of the pasta dish.

• Garlic bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. The buttery, garlicky goodness will be a hit with everyone!

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the meal’s heartiness while adding freshness.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots offer wonderful flavors and textures that complement the main dish perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne will not only taste amazing but also look delightful on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. You can easily store leftovers or even prepare it in advance for a busy day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Be sure to reheat only the portion you plan to eat to keep the remaining pasta fresh.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

You might have a few questions about this delightful recipe. Here are some common queries answered!

Can I use a different type of pasta for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

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

To add some heat, consider including crushed red pepper flakes while cooking or using a spicy BBQ sauce. Adjust according to your taste preference for an exciting kick!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with your favorite plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy a hearty vegetarian version.

What other sides pair well with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

This dish is quite filling on its own! However, a fresh green salad or garlic bread would complement it beautifully if you’re looking for something extra.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and convenience that brings comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re whipping it up for family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, it’s sure to please everyone involved. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below!