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 Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you save time on washing dishes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and spices creates an irresistible taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for your favorite protein or add veggies for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 8 oz uncooked penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnishing

• Chopped parsley
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Add Sauce

Stir in honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce (if using). Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked penne pasta along with enough water to just cover it (about 1 to 1½ cups).

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the skillet and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so all flavors combine beautifully.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Add garnishes like chopped parsley or cheese if desired before serving hot!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is all about enhancing its delightful flavors. This dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of garnishes and accompaniments that elevate the entire meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
• Basil or Cilantro: These herbs add an aromatic flavor that complements the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully.

Include Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Melted cheddar adds a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Mozzarella: For a gooey texture, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the hot pasta before serving.

Spice it Up

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of red pepper flakes gives your meal a spicy kick.
• Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat in their dishes.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce at the bottom of the plate.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.

How to Perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

To make your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne even better, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will help you achieve a tasty and satisfying meal.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality chicken and BBQ sauce for the best flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your penne; it should be tender but not mushy when done.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices gradually to suit your preferences.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different flavors of BBQ sauce to switch up this dish’s taste—spicy, smoky, or even honey mustard.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Pairing side dishes with your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides nutrition and complements the savory flavors of the chicken pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy dressing that pairs well with sweet BBQ notes.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roast seasonal vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers refreshing contrast to the warm, sticky pasta dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter creates a deliciously simple side that everyone loves.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the dish’s flavors while providing healthy carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne can be simple, but certain mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common blunders to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. To avoid this, sear until golden and just cooked through before removing it from the pan.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Not adding enough water to cover the penne can result in unevenly cooked pasta. Always ensure the pasta is just submerged for even cooking.
• Skipping Deglazing: Failing to deglaze the pan can mean missing out on flavor. Take a moment to scrape up those tasty brown bits with chicken broth for a richer sauce.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed to enhance the overall taste.
• Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: The quality of your BBQ sauce greatly affects the dish. Choose a flavorful honey BBQ sauce that you love to ensure delicious results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into single servings for easier thawing.

Reheating One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne works great, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli.

Is there a vegetarian version of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit them entirely.

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

Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances flavors.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding veggies like bell peppers or onions, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner craving. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal that brings comfort and satisfaction!