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 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 busy weeknights or family gatherings. Think sticky, savory-sweet bites, and a silky sauce that clings to every noodle. Whether you’re looking for an easy recipe, a one-pot pasta dish, or family-friendly food ideas—this dish delivers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in just one skillet!
Family-Friendly: The delightful flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Versatile Ingredients: Use simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of honey BBQ and chicken creates a dish that’s truly soul-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. You might already have some of them in your kitchen!

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 extra heat
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for topping

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit your tastes! Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or chicken breast if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or additional crushed red pepper flakes.
Gluten-free alternative: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

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. Once hot, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing the chicken until golden brown not only locks in moisture but also adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. This step is essential! Scraping up any brown bits left from searing will infuse your sauce with rich flavors. Give it a good stir!

Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce

Stir in the honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if you’re using it. Let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked penne along with enough water to barely cover it (about 1 to 1½ cups). Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender. It’s important to keep an eye on it so that nothing sticks!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so that all those amazing flavors combine perfectly.

Step 6: Taste and Garnish

Give your dish a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Consider adding chopped parsley for freshness, crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before serving.

And there you have it! A delicious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne that’s sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Cooking can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to help you nail this recipe and impress your loved ones.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables boost the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish, making it taste even more delicious and vibrant.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of honey BBQ sauce or mix in a splash of lemon juice for acidity. This balance will enhance the overall flavor.
Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the penne until it’s just slightly firm helps to avoid mushiness as it simmers with the sauce. It also adds a pleasant texture to each bite!
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, creating an even more satisfying experience when served.
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to play around with different spices or herbs like oregano or thyme. They can add depth and complexity to your dish, making it uniquely yours!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation is key when serving this scrumptious dish! With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, here’s how you can elevate your meal.

Garnishes

Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the plate.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes will give your dish an exciting kick without overpowering its flavors.
Shredded cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top creates a melty layer that makes every bite irresistible!

Side Dishes

Garlic bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color, complementing the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully.
Caesar salad (without anchovies): A refreshing Caesar salad brings crispness and tanginess, balancing out the warm and savory elements of your main dish.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in texture and taste, making it an excellent accompaniment that rounds out your meal perfectly.

Enjoy crafting this delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s not just about the food; it’s about bringing joy to your dining table with flavors that warm the heart.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not just delicious; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Cool the dish completely before freezing.
Divide into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may help you with your cooking experience!

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

Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

How do I adjust the spice level in One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

You can increase or decrease crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference. For less heat, use a pinch; for more, add more flakes!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with diced turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?

A honey-based BBQ sauce will enhance the tangy flavor. Feel free to choose your favorite brand or make your own at home!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this journey into making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! This dish is not only quick and simple but also brings a comforting mix of flavors that will surely delight your taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is here to satisfy your cravings. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—enjoy every delicious bite!