Name: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for Easy Weeknight Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (can use canola or vegetable oil as a substitute); 1 pound chicken (boneless breasts or thighs) (juicy and flavorful; thighs can be more forgiving on cooking time); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or use 1 clove fresh garlic); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or use regular paprika with a touch of liquid smoke); ½ cup chicken broth (vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option); 1 cup honey BBQ sauce (DIY version can be made using ketchup, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free choice); 8 ounces penne pasta (can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli); 1 cup shredded cheese (can be stirred in at the end); to taste crushed red pepper (if desired)

As I stirred the bubbling pot, the sweet and tangy aroma of honey BBQ sauce wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy family gathering. Introducing my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, a delightful dish that effortlessly marries the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken with al dente pasta—perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quick prep, making it an ideal choice for those craving comfort food without the hassle of multiple dishes. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy delicious moments with loved ones. Ready to dive into a hearty meal that not only satisfies but also brings warmth to your table? Let’s get cooking!

Why Choose One-Pan Recipes?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just one pan required, you’ll breeze through prep and cleanup in no time.

Family-Friendly Delight: The delicious combination of chicken and pasta appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy.

Quick and Easy: From stovetop to table in under 30 minutes, this dish perfectly fits into even the busiest schedules.

Flavor Explosion: The tangy honey BBQ sauce clings to the pasta, creating a rich and vibrant flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.

For a delightful twist on BBQ, try pairing it with a refreshing Bbq Chicken Salad as a side.

Versatile Options: Easily swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version, making it accessible for everyone’s dietary needs.

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious one-pan dish!

For the Chicken

Olive Oil – Provides fat for cooking and helps achieve a golden-brown sear; can use canola or vegetable oil as a substitute.
Chicken (boneless breasts or thighs) – The main protein source, juicy and flavorful; thighs can be more forgiving on cooking time.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken; adjust to taste.
Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be used instead (1 clove = 1/4 teaspoon powder).
Smoked Paprika – Provides a smoky undertone; regular paprika with a touch of liquid smoke makes a great substitute.

For the Sauce

Chicken Broth – Builds the sauce’s flavor base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
Honey BBQ Sauce – The star of the dish, providing sweetness and tang; a DIY version can be made using ketchup, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder.
Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavors; use tamari for a gluten-free choice.

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – A pasta type that holds sauce well; rigatoni or fusilli can serve as substitutes.
Water – Helps cook the pasta and thins the sauce if necessary.

Optional Garnishes

Shredded Cheese – Adds richness and extra flavor; can be stirred in at the end.
Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a spicy kick if desired; adjust to taste.

Unleash the flavors with these ingredients and let your kitchen fill with the warm essence of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large non-stick skillet, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough, then prepare to add the chicken. This initial step sets the foundation for a sizzling start to your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Add bite-sized pieces of chicken, ensuring they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, then remove the pieces and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Lower the heat to medium and pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, scraping the skillet’s bottom with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits left from the chicken. This deglazing adds rich flavor to the sauce, essential for your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of honey BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, combining them well. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. You should see the sauce thicken slightly, preparing for the pasta to absorb this delicious goodness.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add 8 ounces of uncooked penne to the skillet, then pour in enough water to just cover the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The penne should be al dente and coated nicely in the sauce by the end of this step.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring it back into the pasta and sauce mix. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through, adjusting seasoning if needed. Your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is now ready to be served, bursting with flavors and textures that are sure to delight!

What to Serve with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Completing your meal with the perfect sides can elevate your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne experience into something truly special.

Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight adds a crispy texture that complements the sauciness of the pasta.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, balancing the rich flavors of your dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies add color and nutrients, while their caramelized sweetness matches the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully.
Coleslaw: This cool, creamy side brings crunch and a zesty tang that pairs wonderfully with the hearty chicken and pasta.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn enhances the BBQ theme and brings a burst of summer flavor to the meal.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink, like iced tea or homemade lemonade, provides a thirst-quenching counterpoint to the dish’s richness.

For dessert, consider finishing the meal with a light fruit salad or a slice of lemon meringue pie to cleanse the palate!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and season it up to 24 hours in advance by combining the bite-sized pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, then covering and refrigerating. The honey BBQ sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s just as flavorful. When it’s time to cook, simply heat the oil, sear the chicken, add the sauce, and follow the remaining steps as usual. This way, you’ll have a quick, delicious dinner ready to go with minimal effort, making your meal prep a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Fridge: Store leftover One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently until warmed through.

Reheating: When reheating, consider adding a bit of water or broth if the dish appears thick. Stir well to ensure even warming, and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy!

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delightful twists to experience new flavors and textures!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas, tofu, or plant-based chicken. This change transforms the dish into a hearty vegetarian delight without compromising on the flavors!
Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Each offers a unique texture, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully in its own way.
Extra Veggies: Toss in favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. These veggies not only enhance the color but also bring a fresh crunch to every bite.
Cheesy Addition: For a creamy texture, stir in shredded cheese or cream cheese towards the end of cooking. It creates a luscious sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken wonderfully.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or use a spicy BBQ sauce. This fiery twist is sure to appeal to those who like things a bit more daring!
Sweet and Savory Twist: Enhance the sweetness by adding a splash of pineapple juice or some diced pineapple. This addition layers the flavors with a tropical flair that balances the BBQ essence delightfully.
Garlic Lovers: Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic. The vibrant aroma and flavor of fresh garlic can elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Add a Fresh Side: For a refreshing pairing, serve with a side of Bbq Chicken Salad or Bbq Chicken Chopped Salad, bringing a crunchy contrast to the eatery’s warm elements!

Tips for the Best One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and avoid drying it out.
Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow the chicken to sear without overcrowding the pan. This creates a delicious brown crust and adds depth to the sauce.
Scrape for Flavor: When adding broth, remember to scrape those delicious browned bits from the pan. It enhances the sauce significantly!
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the honey BBQ sauce with your favorite spices or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Watch the Pasta: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking together and ensure even absorption of the sauce.
Serve Fresh: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is best enjoyed fresh. If storing leftovers, remember the pasta may thicken as it absorbs more sauce when reheated.

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work wonders. I usually prefer thighs as they stay juicier and are more forgiving if overcooked. Look for chicken that feels firm and has no dark spots; this indicates freshness.

How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet or microwave to regain that saucy goodness!

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, first cool it completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.

What if the pasta absorbs too much sauce?
That can happen! If your pasta absorbs more sauce than desired, just add a bit of water or chicken broth during reheating until it reaches the consistency you like. Stir well to fully incorporate the sauce into the pasta for that perfect sticky goodness!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, check the labels on your BBQ sauce and soy sauce, as they may contain gluten or other allergens. For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free. Additionally, this dish can easily be made vegetarian by replacing chicken with chickpeas or tofu.

What can I use instead of honey BBQ sauce?
Great question! If you don’t have honey BBQ sauce, you can make your own mix using 1 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of honey, a tablespoon of vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a sprinkle of paprika and garlic powder. Mix them all together, and you’ll have a lovely homemade alternative!