Name: Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne: The Easy One-Pan Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Penne Pasta (or rotini or fusilli); 1 pound Chicken (boneless breasts or thighs) (Thighs add more moisture); ½ cup Honey BBQ Sauce (smoky-sweet, can make homemade version); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 cup Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for searing chicken); 1 teaspoon Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika) (adjust to taste); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella for creaminess)

The aroma of sweet BBQ sauce sizzling in a skillet transports me back to warm summer evenings spent grilling. Today, I’m bringing that nostalgic comfort indoors with my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. This dish marries juicy chicken with pasta, creating a delightful balance of smoky and sweet flavors—perfect for when you’re craving something special yet easy to whip up. One of the best parts? It’s a quick weeknight dinner that requires just one pan, making cleanup a breeze, and it’s easily customizable for everyone at the table. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need a cozy dinner solution, the possibilities are endless! Curious about how to achieve that amazing combination of flavors? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: Cooking this dish is as easy as it gets. With just one pan, you’ll have minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Rich, Tangy Flavor: The combination of honey BBQ sauce with juicy chicken creates an unforgettable taste, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.

Customizable Delight: Options abound! Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas, or even experiment with different pasta shapes.

Quick Weeknight Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze, perfect for busy schedules.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: It’s a meal that everyone will love, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Why not pair it with a refreshing green salad for a balanced meal? You can check out Peanut Chicken Savory for more delicious ideas!

Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Ingredients

• Explore the flavors of this enticing dish with these simple ingredients!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta – This short pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap it with rotini or fusilli for a fun twist.

For the Chicken

Chicken (boneless breasts or thighs) – Juicy chicken is the star; thighs add more moisture, and for plant-based options, try substituting with chickpeas or tofu.

For the Sauce

Honey BBQ Sauce – This smoky-sweet sauce is essential; you can also make a homemade version using ketchup, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder.
Soy Sauce – Adds a savory umami boost; it can be swapped with tamari for a gluten-free alternative.

For Cooking

Chicken Broth – Imparts depth of flavor while cooking; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish.
Olive Oil – Necessary for searing the chicken and avoiding sticking in the pan.

For Seasoning

Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika) – These enhance the flavor profile; feel free to adjust to suit your taste.

Optional Additions

Shredded Cheese – A delicious final touch for creaminess; consider cheddar or mozzarella for a richer sauce.

Elevate your cooking game with this flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil shimmers; this indicates it’s hot enough to sear the chicken. Once ready, prepare your chicken thighs or breasts so they are evenly coated with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for that perfect seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 5–7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Flip it halfway through for even browning. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the rest of the Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

Step 3: Add the Broth
Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium-low and add 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon. This will lift all the flavorful browned bits that are essential for flavor. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, allowing it to build flavor as you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Stir in the Sauces
Next, pour in ½ cup of honey BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, mixing well. Let this delicious blend bubble for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you see the sauce slightly thicken. The aroma will be irresistible, giving you a preview of the mouthwatering dish to come!

Step 5: Add the Pasta
Now, introduce 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring to ensure the pasta is coated with the sauce. Add enough water to barely cover the pasta. This will help cook it thoroughly while absorbing all those amazing flavors from the Tangy Honey BBQ sauce.

Step 6: Simmer the Pasta
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the pasta; it should be al dente, absorbing the sauce and becoming tender. The kitchen will start to fill with the enticing scent of BBQ goodness!

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Once the pasta is just right, return the seared chicken to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the pasta and sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2–3 minutes to let all those flavors meld together beautifully, adjusting any seasoning as needed to suit your taste preferences.

Step 8: Finish with Cheese
For that extra creaminess in your Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, consider stirring in a handful of shredded cheese once the chicken and pasta are well combined. Let it melt into the dish for a rich texture. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper can elevate the flavor profile even further!

Expert Tips for Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Don’t Rush the Sear: Searing the chicken properly creates those yummy, browned bits at the bottom of the pan that are crucial for flavor.
Adjust Water Wisely: Pasta shapes vary in cooking time and water absorption. Keep an eye on it, and adjust water as needed to achieve a perfect sauce consistency.
Taste as You Go: Always seasoning at the end makes a world of difference. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving your Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.
Explore Sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different BBQ sauces or add spices to customize your dish; it’ll surprise your taste buds with new flavors!
Leftover Magic: This meal makes fantastic leftovers! Just remember that pasta can absorb sauce; add a splash of water while reheating for optimal flavor.

Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Variations

Invite your inner chef to play and explore delightful twists on this dish!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed, plant-based meal that’s just as satisfying.
Pasta Swap: Try rotating in different pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle to change the texture and presentation of your dish.
Spicy Kick: Elevate the heat by mixing in some spicy BBQ sauce or adding red pepper flakes for an exciting kick!
Sweet & Smoky: Experiment with homemade BBQ sauce by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and a dash of vinegar to customize the sweetness and smokiness.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some creamy goat cheese or crumbled feta at the end for a tangy twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving to add a refreshing burst of flavor.
Creamy Variation: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream for a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Umami Punch: Use miso paste in place of soy sauce to give your dish an extra depth of umami that pairs deliciously with BBQ flavors.

Feel inspired? You might even want to check out our exciting recipe for Gordon Ramsay Chicken to broaden your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the creative journey!

How to Store and Freeze Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Fridge: Store any leftover Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavorful profile while keeping it fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Texture Tip: Keep in mind that pasta may absorb some sauce during storage. Adding a bit of liquid while reheating will help restore moisture and flavor.

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

To create a delightful dining experience, it’s essential to pair this dish with complementing flavors and textures.

Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the aroma of toasted garlic bread; it adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp and vibrant, the slight bitterness of broccoli perfectly balances the dish’s sweetness, adding freshness.
Caesar Salad: A classic combination, the creamy dressing and crunchy croutons elevate the meal while providing a refreshing bite.
Coleslaw: This crunchy side salad offers brightness and tang, harmonizing with the sweet BBQ flavors and adding texture.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Caramelized sugars from roasted sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink choice that cleanses the palate; the zesty lime cuts through the dish’s richness beautifully.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, soft and warm cookies provide a comforting finish to a hearty meal, satisfying the sweet tooth in every diner.
Iced Tea: A chilled beverage option that offers a subtle sweetness and complements the savory components of the dish nicely.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken and cook it up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning and searing it, and then refrigerating it until you’re ready to use. The honey BBQ sauce can also be made ahead; just let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sauce, add the penne and chicken, then simmer until everything is warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort!

Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for bright pink flesh without any dark spots, which may indicate spoilage. If possible, opt for organic or free-range options for better flavor and quality.

How can I store leftover Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll preserve the delicious flavors while keeping it fresh.

Can I freeze Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Of course! To freeze, place the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my pasta becomes mushy after cooking?
Very! Mushy pasta can happen if it’s cooked too long or if there’s too much liquid. To avoid this, make sure to follow the cooking time closely and stir occasionally. If you find your pasta is overcooked, add some grated cheese on top to create a creamy texture that can mask the mushiness a little.

Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu to make a plant-based version. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and check that your BBQ sauce is free from animal products.

What should I do if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
No worries! You can easily whip up a quick homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, honey, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder. Combine these ingredients in a small bowl and adjust to taste for a flavorful sauce that works beautifully in your Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.