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 to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and spices creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit for everyone at the table.
• Customizable: Easily swap out proteins or add veggies to suit your family’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne requires some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large non-stick skillet: This allows for even cooking without sticking, making sure the chicken sears perfectly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring sauces and pasta without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 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

For Garnish

• 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 Skillet

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 from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan by scraping up brown bits from the bottom.

Step 4: Add Sauce

Stir in honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

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

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for another 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Add garnishes like chopped parsley or crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is all about enhancing its delightful flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that complements the dish.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and extra crunch.

Add Extra Cheese

• Shredded cheddar: Melts beautifully into the penne, adding richness and creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan gives a salty kick that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Garden salad: A light, crisp salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers enhances the meal’s freshness.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, making it a perfect contrast to the savory chicken penne.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce, garlic bread adds an irresistible flavor.
• Dinner rolls: Soft rolls are great for sopping up every last bit of the tangy sauce.

How to Perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

To achieve the best results with your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, follow these tips to ensure mouthwatering flavors and perfect texture.

• Use quality chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts for juicy bites.
• Don’t skip deglazing: Scraping up the browned bits after searing chicken adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust liquid carefully: Ensure you add enough water to cover the pasta without making it soupy; this helps achieve al dente perfection.
• Taste as you go: Sample the dish throughout cooking to adjust seasoning levels for maximum flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all flavors together.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like onion powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat!

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

Complementing your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for soaking up delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch against rich pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized works well alongside this hearty meal.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of flavor that pairs nicely with BBQ dishes.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked potato wedges offer an extra comforting element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland bites. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you let the penne cook too long, it can become mushy. Make sure to stir occasionally and check for tenderness around the 12-minute mark.
• Ignoring the deglazing step: Failing to scrape up brown bits from the pan can mean missing out on deep flavors. Take time to deglaze with broth before adding sauce.
• Using regular BBQ sauce: Regular BBQ sauce may be too salty or overpowering. Opt for honey BBQ sauce to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in your dish.
• Not adjusting liquid levels: Adding too little or too much water can affect cooking times and pasta texture. Follow the recipe closely for optimal results.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or cheese can rob your dish of visual appeal and extra flavor. Always finish with a sprinkle of herbs or cheese for that final touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it is completely cooled before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Stir between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pasta like rigatoni or rotini. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a vegetarian option for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian meal.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy BBQ sauce instead of honey BBQ sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients like cutting chicken and measuring out sauces ahead of time. However, it’s best cooked fresh for optimal texture.

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

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly without overwhelming its flavors.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. With its sticky-sweet sauce coating tender pasta and juicy chicken, it’s bound to become a family favorite! Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for an even more delightful meal experience.