One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of those bustling weeknight dinners when everyone was rushing home from different activities. The aroma of sweet and tangy BBQ sauce simmering in the kitchen was enough to draw the kids in like a moth to a flame. I can still picture their eager faces, plates piled high, and the laughter that filled our home as we shared stories about our day. It’s these moments that make cooking worth it; the love and chaos all wrapped up in one delicious dish.

This recipe is perfect for any time of year but feels especially comforting during the fall months when the air turns crisp, and cozy meals are a must. It’s a fantastic blend of flavors that warms your soul and pleases your palate, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a simple weeknight treat. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that can be made in just one pan? That means less cleanup and more time spent with loved ones around the table.

Why You’ll Love "One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne"

Quick prep and cook time — ready in just 30 minutes!
Only one pan needed, which means minimal cleanup.
Family-friendly flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients for a stress-free cooking experience.
Perfect for meal prepping or freezing leftovers for busy days.
Comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup (240ml) BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand for the best flavor)
½ cup (120ml) honey (local honey adds a lovely touch)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for that extra depth of flavor)
3 cups (720ml) chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium is great)
12 oz (340g) penne pasta
1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Ingredients

Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle can be used

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings out the flavor!
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan.
Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.

Make the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, grab a medium bowl and mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This sauce is where all the magic happens!
Once the chicken is browned, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the pan. Stir well to coat each piece of chicken evenly.

Cook the Pasta

Add the chicken broth to the pan and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, stir in the penne pasta. Make sure it’s submerged in the broth but don’t worry if it looks a little crowded at first!
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Combine and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything looks creamy and delicious.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that pop of color and extra flavor.
Scoop the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne into bowls, and serve it hot. Enjoy those satisfied smiles around the table!

Variations

Add fresh veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a boost of nutrition.
Use a gluten-free pasta for a completely gluten-free dish.
Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Mix in some corn or black beans for added texture and flavor.
For a lighter version, use less honey or a sugar-free BBQ sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, and those satisfied smiles will be the best compliment!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Notes

Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or plant-based proteins for a different flavor.
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar works too!
For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Leftover sauce can be used as a dip for veggies or chicken nuggets.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I substitute for the BBQ sauce?

You can substitute BBQ sauce with homemade sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it's a sauce you enjoy!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta and ensuring the BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne as I am to share it with you! This dish captures the warmth of family meals and the joy of cooking without the fuss. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and making memories around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let the laughter and delicious aromas fill your home. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a flavorful and easy dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a sweet tangy sauce.

Instructions

Season chicken with salt and pepper.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chicken and cook until browned.
In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Pour sauce over chicken and stir to coat.
Add chicken broth and penne pasta to the pan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Use any BBQ sauce you like.
Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 80g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, easy chicken recipe, pasta dish