Dinner

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

Introduction

This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that combines smoky BBQ flavors with a touch of sweetness. It’s a satisfying meal where tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a savory, flavorful sauce.

The image shows a close-up of penne pasta mixed with pieces of cooked chicken in a thick, rich orange sauce. The pasta is light brown with ridges and is evenly coated with the sauce, which appears glossy. The chicken pieces are white with a slightly browned surface, scattered throughout the pasta. Small bits of herbs and spices are visible on the sauce, adding specks of green and black. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
1 ½ cups water or chicken broth
¾ cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky variety)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the pan to deglaze.
Step 4: Stir in uncooked penne pasta. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Once pasta is tender, reduce heat and stir in BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
Step 6: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 7: Remove from heat. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Step 8: Serve hot directly from the skillet.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor in the pasta.
Swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli for a different pasta shape.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh 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 microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.