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: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked in just one skillet.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and fun textures, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat for a hassle-free meal later.
• Customizable Flavors: The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne are simple and wholesome. They blend beautifully to create a dish that’s not only delightful but also nourishing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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, for topping

Variations

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or plant-based alternatives instead of chicken for different flavors.
• Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or corn during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free penne to fit your dietary needs.
• Spice it up: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy extra heat in your meals.

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized pieces of chicken, seasoning them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Searing the chicken until golden brown not only locks in moisture but also adds incredible flavor from those crispy bits. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pan

With the skillet still hot, pour in your low-sodium chicken broth. This step is crucial as it helps lift off any brown bits stuck to the pan—those are packed with flavor! Scrape gently with a spatula while allowing it to simmer for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Stir in your honey BBQ sauce along with soy sauce if you’re using it. Let this mixture bubble away for another couple of minutes; you’ll notice how it thickens slightly and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add your uncooked penne! Pour it right into the pan along with enough water to barely cover it—about 1 to 1½ cups should do the trick. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally so that each piece of pasta gets coated in that tangy goodness while cooking through.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your pasta is tender, return the seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir well so that every piece gets mingled together with those delicious flavors. Let it simmer together for another few minutes—this allows all those tastes to blend beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Give everything a taste before serving! Adjust seasoning if needed and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness. For an added treat, don’t forget the shredded cheese; let it melt slightly on top before dishing out.

And there you have it! A delightful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne that will warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every sticky bite!

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

Creating the perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is all about those little touches that elevate your dish. Here are some tips to help you master this easy and delicious recipe!

• Use high-quality BBQ sauce: A flavorful honey BBQ sauce can make a huge difference in taste. Look for one with natural ingredients for a balanced flavor profile that enhances your dish.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Searing the chicken in batches if necessary allows for even cooking and a lovely golden crust. This step ensures that your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of cumin or onion powder can add depth to the overall flavor, making your dish even more exciting.

• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve your perfect balance of flavors. This habit helps you create a dish tailored to your palate.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, resulting in an even tastier meal when it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Presentation can transform how we enjoy our meals, so let’s explore some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal.
• Shredded cheese: Melty cheese on top gives a creamy texture and deliciously rich flavor, making each bite irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love warm, buttery bread?
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds nutrition and lovely color to your plate while providing a nice crunchy contrast to the pasta.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed with olive oil and herbs bring an earthy sweetness that complements the smoky flavors of the chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an unforgettable meal that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delightful bite of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.
• If you’d like, separate the pasta and chicken to help maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; this usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and follow the same cooking method.

What type of BBQ sauce works best for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

A honey BBQ sauce adds a delightful sweetness and tanginess. Feel free to choose a brand that suits your taste preferences or even make your own!

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

To kick up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or mix in some diced jalapeños when sautéing the chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Whether you’re busy during the week or simply craving something hearty on a weekend, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations—happy cooking!