Rich, saucy, and absolutely unforgettable—One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. This dish brings together juicy chunks of chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all tossed in a sticky, sweet-and-smoky honey BBQ sauce. It’s bold and hearty with just the right kick of tang, creating an irresistible fusion of flavors that clings to every bite of pasta.
This recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver—cooked entirely in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need something impressive yet effortless for a cozy dinner, this penne delivers satisfaction in every forkful. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas with a twist of delicious BBQ goodness.
Ingredients for this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 cups penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (choose a tangy variety for best flavor)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes until golden on the outside and just cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
In the same pan (don’t wipe it clean—you want those tasty browned bits!), pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the bottom gently with a wooden spoon to deglaze. Stir in the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting all the flavors meld together for 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the simmering sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly. Cover with a lid and let it cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is done, add a splash of broth or water.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir everything together gently and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce clings to each bite.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top, and optionally dust with a bit of grated parmesan for a savory finish. Serve hot, straight from the pan, for maximum comfort and flavor.
Storage Instructions
To store One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 4 days when stored in a sealed container.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4)
- Calories: ~540 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 17g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
Note: Values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, rotini or rigatoni works well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add or reduce chili flakes to control the heat level.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just skip the searing step and add the chicken when you combine everything at the end.
4. What BBQ sauce works best?
A tangy or smoky BBQ sauce is ideal. Avoid overly sweet ones unless balanced with a touch of vinegar or mustard.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the chicken for plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use veggie broth.
6. Is it okay to add veggies?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms go great. Add them during the simmering stage.
7. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute it with a little yellow mustard or omit it if needed—though it adds a nice tang.
8. Does it reheat well for meal prep?
Definitely. It’s a great make-ahead meal and holds up wonderfully for lunches or dinner throughout the week.
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