One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and delicious dinner idea that combines tender chicken, flavorful BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one skillet. It’s a comforting meal with a sweet and tangy twist, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup honey barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the honey BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Then, add the uncooked penne pasta and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Step 4: If desired, sprinkle the top of the dish with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Finally, top the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
• Use chicken breasts for leaner meat or thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites.
• Swap penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni for variety.
• Mix in some sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for added texture and nutrients.
• Try different BBQ sauces like smoky chipotle or spicy for a new flavor twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use precooked chicken instead of raw?

Yes, you can add precooked chicken after the pasta is nearly done to avoid overcooking it. Just stir it in and heat through until warmed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly. For best results, freeze without pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 536 reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and delicious dinner option that combines tender chicken, flavorful honey barbecue sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all in a single skillet. With a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, this easy skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with cheese and fresh herbs for extra flair.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup honey barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it is cooked through and develops a nice sear for flavor.
2. Add Sauces and Pasta: Stir in the honey barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth to the browned chicken. Next, add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet and bring the entire mixture to a boil, which helps begin cooking the pasta in the flavored liquid.
3. Simmer with Lid On: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the pasta to cook through and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
4. Optional Cheese Melt: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta and chicken mixture. Cover again and let the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes, creating a creamy and cheesy finish.
5. Garnish and Serve: Finally, top the dish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne hot, enjoying the harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs based on preference.
• Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for desired spice level.
• Low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness but regular broth can be used.
• The dish can be made dairy-free by omitting the optional cheese toppings.
• Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: one-pan meal, honey BBQ chicken, quick dinner, penne pasta recipe, easy skillet dinner, weeknight meal