Easy One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Dinner

One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne – doesn’t that sound like the perfect remedy for a busy weeknight? I know for myself, finding a dinner recipe that promises both incredible flavor and minimal cleanup feels like discovering a culinary superpower. This dish is precisely that: a triumphant blend of convenience and deliciousness, designed to transform your dinner routine without sacrificing taste or quality.

In our fast-paced lives, the quest for wholesome, stress-free meals has become more important than ever. While this particular recipe doesn’t boast centuries of tradition, it perfectly encapsulates the modern culinary spirit: combining beloved flavors with ingenious, time-saving methods. It takes the comforting familiarity of pasta, the sweet and savory allure of honey BBQ, and tender chicken, merging them into a harmonious, family-friendly meal that cooks entirely in a single pan.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dish

What truly makes this One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne a standout is its irresistible appeal on multiple fronts. From the very first bite, you’ll savor the delightful interplay of flavors – the bright tang of the BBQ sauce beautifully balanced by the richness of honey, all coating tender pieces of chicken and perfectly al dente penne pasta. The textures are just as pleasing, offering a satisfying chew that complements the vibrant sauce. Beyond the sensory experience, the true magic lies in its preparation: imagine a hearty, restaurant-quality meal on the table with just one pot to wash. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone seeking flavor, comfort, and ultimate ease.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinating)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, plus more to taste
• For the Sauce & Pasta:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) bottle your favorite BBQ sauce (about 1.5 cups)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
  • 12 oz (about 3 cups) dry penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, but highly recommended for richness)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar-jack blend
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat (optional)

Prepping and Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps create a beautiful sear later on. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the chicken into roughly 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Aim for consistency in size, as this ensures even cooking. If your pieces are too large, they might not cook through at the same rate as the pasta, and if too small, they could become dry.
2. Marinate for Depth: In a medium bowl, combine your prepared chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands (or a spoon) to toss everything together until every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This simple marinade is key to building the foundational flavor profile for our One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. The smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth and subtle smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
3. Allow Flavors to Mingle: Once coated, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes while you gather your other ingredients and begin dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. If you have more time, feel free to marinate it in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes to an hour. However, for this quick one-pan recipe, a shorter marinade is perfectly sufficient to infuse a good amount of flavor. Bringing the chicken closer to room temperature before cooking also helps it cook more evenly.

Creating the Rich Base: Searing and Sautéing

4. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You’ll want a pan that’s substantial enough to hold all your ingredients, including the pasta and liquid, without overflowing. Once the oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke lightly, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, sear the chicken in two batches to ensure good browning. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and has developed a nice crust. We’re not aiming to cook the chicken through at this stage, but rather to build flavor and texture through searing. This browning creates a delicious “fond” (the browned bits at the bottom of the pan) which will be scraped up later, adding immense depth to our sauce.
5. Remove and Reserve: Once the chicken pieces are nicely seared on all sides, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a clean plate. Set them aside for now; they will return to the pan later to finish cooking alongside the pasta. Don’t worry if there are some browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – that’s exactly what we want!
6. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the same skillet, scraping up any of those delicious browned bits from the chicken as you stir. If the pan seems too dry, add just a tiny splash more olive oil. Cook the onion for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent. This process sweetens the onion and forms a fragrant base for our sauce.
7. Add the Garlic: Once the onion is soft, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. The goal here is to release its aromatic oils.

Building the “One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne” Sauce and Adding Pasta

8. Deglaze and Build the Sauce Base: Pour in about 1/4 cup of the chicken broth into the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to vigorously scrape up all those wonderful browned bits (the “fond”) from the bottom of the skillet. This step, known as deglazing, is crucial for capturing all the concentrated flavors left behind by the chicken and onions. Once the fond is incorporated, stir in the entire bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce, the honey, and the apple cider vinegar. The apple cider vinegar is essential here; it provides that “tangy” balance to the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the BBQ sauce, truly embodying the “One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne” experience. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
9. Introduce the Liquid and Pasta: Pour in the remaining chicken broth into the skillet with the sauce. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed. Next, add the dry penne pasta directly into the sauce mixture. Push the pasta down with your spoon to ensure it’s as submerged as possible in the liquid. It’s perfectly fine if a few strands peek out, but the majority should be covered. The starch from the pasta will release into the sauce as it cooks, helping to thicken it beautifully.
10. Return the Chicken: Gently nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the pan, distributing them evenly among the pasta and sauce. Ensure they are partially submerged so they can finish cooking in the flavorful liquid.

Simmering, Finishing, and Perfecting the Dish

11. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the liquid in the skillet to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This simmering phase is where the magic happens for our One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne. During this time, the pasta will cook to al dente, absorbing all the incredible flavors of the BBQ sauce, honey, and chicken broth. It’s incredibly important to stir the contents of the pan every 5-7 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking. If the sauce seems to be reducing too quickly and the pasta isn’t cooked, you can add an additional splash of chicken broth or even water, 1/4 cup at a time, until the pasta reaches your desired doneness.
12. Check for Doneness: After 15-20 minutes, taste a piece of pasta to check if it’s al dente (firm to the bite) and the chicken is cooked through (no longer pink in the center, internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). The sauce should be thick and clinging to the pasta. If the pasta needs more time, add a little more liquid and continue to simmer, covered, for a few more minutes. If there’s too much liquid, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to reduce the sauce, stirring frequently.
13. Add Creamy Richness (Optional but Recommended): Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. If using, stir in the heavy cream. This step adds a luxurious richness and smooth texture to the sauce, mellowing out the tang a bit and making the dish incredibly comforting.
14. Melt in the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred blend) evenly over the top of the pasta and chicken. Place the lid back on the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese into a gooey, irresistible layer. Alternatively, if your skillet is oven-safe, you can place it under a broiler for a minute or two to get a beautifully browned, bubbly cheese topping (watch carefully to prevent burning!).
15. Final Seasoning and Garnish: Remove the lid and give the entire dish one final gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese throughout. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving. The fresh herbs provide a pop of color and a contrasting freshness that brightens the entire One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne.
16. Serve Immediately: Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve hot. This dish is truly best enjoyed fresh from the pan!

Tips for Success & Delightful Variations

Ensuring Your One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is Always a Hit:

• Choosing the Right Pan: A large, deep, heavy-bottomed skillet (like a 12-inch cast iron skillet, a stainless steel braiser, or a Dutch oven) with a tight-fitting lid is crucial. This ensures even heat distribution and enough space for all ingredients to cook properly without overcrowding. If your pan is too small, the pasta might not cook evenly, or the liquid might evaporate too quickly.
• Pasta Doneness: Pay close attention to your pasta. Different brands and shapes can vary in cooking time. Always taste a piece before assuming it’s done. If it’s still too firm but the liquid is gone, add 1/4 cup of hot broth or water at a time and continue cooking, covered, until it reaches al dente. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and compromise the texture of the dish.
• Preventing Sticking: Stirring every 5-7 minutes during the simmering process is not just a suggestion, it’s a necessity! This prevents the pasta from clumping together and sticking to the bottom of the pan, ensuring a beautifully consistent sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce ends up too thin, simply remove the lid and let it simmer for a few extra minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate and thicken the sauce. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember that it will also thicken slightly as it cools.

Exciting Variations to Explore:

• Make it Spicier: For those who love a kick, add a generous pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or stir in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce (like Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot) when you add the BBQ sauce. A finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper added with the onion would also provide a wonderful fresh heat.
• Add More Veggies: This dish is very adaptable to vegetable additions. Consider adding diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) along with the onion for extra color and nutrients. Sautéed mushrooms or a handful of fresh spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking, wilting beautifully into the sauce. For a burst of green, fresh or frozen peas can be added in the final 5 minutes of simmering.
• Smoky Enhancements: Boost the smoky flavor by adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke (use sparingly!) to the sauce mixture, or crumbling in some cooked bacon bits over the top when serving.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses! Smoked Gouda would add another layer of depth, pepper jack would bring more spice, or even a creamy mozzarella for extra stretchiness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the end is also always a welcome addition.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If your BBQ sauce is already quite sweet, you might want to reduce the amount of honey or even omit it, adding it gradually to taste. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter, more robust BBQ flavor, feel free to increase the honey slightly. The “tangy” comes from the apple cider vinegar, so keep that in!
• Herb Alternatives: If parsley or cilantro aren’t your preference, fresh chives or even a sprinkle of dried oregano can be lovely garnishes. Fresh basil, torn or chopped, would also lend a nice aromatic touch.

Meal Prep and Leftovers:

• Storage: Leftovers of your One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken further upon cooling.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has become too thick. You can also reheat it gently on the stovetop in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency. It’s important to reheat gently to prevent the chicken from drying out and the pasta from becoming mushy.

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey for today, and I truly hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about the incredible dish we’ve just explored. If there’s one recipe you absolutely must add to your weekly rotation, it’s this sensational One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne. Seriously, I’m not just saying that because I love to cook; I’m saying it because this dish genuinely delivers on every single promise: flavor, convenience, and minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with multiple pots and pans, a true weeknight warrior that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Why is this recipe a non-negotiable addition to your kitchen arsenal? First off, let’s talk about the sheer simplicity. Imagine coming home after a long day, perhaps battling traffic or tackling a mountain of emails, and knowing that a delicious, homemade meal is just a few straightforward steps away. No complex techniques, no obscure ingredients, just honest-to-goodness cooking that culminates in a dish bursting with flavor. The chicken emerges perfectly tender, coated in that irresistible sticky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce that we’ve crafted, while the penne pasta cooks right alongside it, absorbing all those fantastic juices and becoming a flavor powerhouse in its own right. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate, offering a delightful balance between savory, sweet, and a touch of that zesty tang that makes BBQ so addictive.

But the magic doesn’t stop at flavor and ease of preparation. The “one pan” aspect is, for many of us, the ultimate game-changer. Think about it: a single pan goes from stovetop to oven, concentrating all those amazing flavors and, even better, drastically reducing your post-dinner clean-up. No towering piles of pots, no scrubbing stubborn residue from multiple surfaces. Just one pan to wash, leaving you more time to actually relax and enjoy the evening, perhaps with a good book or some quality time with loved ones. It’s a win-win situation that I personally cherish on those busy evenings when efficiency is key.

Now, let’s get creative with some serving suggestions and variations to truly make this recipe your own. While the One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne is utterly satisfying on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette – the crisp freshness provides a lovely contrast to the rich pasta. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus would also be fantastic, adding a touch of vibrant color and extra nutrients to your plate. If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving adds a burst of freshness that brightens everything up.

Variations to Spark Your Culinary Imagination:

• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes along with your garlic, or a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ mixture.
• Veggie Boost: Feel free to toss in some extra vegetables! Sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange work wonderfully), thinly sliced onions, or even some corn kernels can be added to the pan alongside the chicken and pasta for added color, texture, and nutrition. Stir in some fresh spinach at the very end until it just wilts for an extra green kick.
• Cheese Please: While Parmesan is lovely, experiment with other cheeses. A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or a smoky Gouda could add a whole new dimension of flavor.
• Pasta Preferences: Not a fan of penne? No problem! Most short pastas like rotini, ziti, or even farfalle would work just as well, absorbing all that delicious sauce. Just ensure the cooking times are similar.
• Protein Swap (for another meal idea): While this recipe champions chicken, a similar one-pan concept could be adapted for pork loin or even a vegetarian version using hearty vegetables and beans.

So, my fellow food enthusiasts, what are you waiting for? I’m genuinely thrilled for you to experience the magic of this recipe firsthand. Don’t just take my word for it; gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and prepare to be amazed by how much flavor can come from so little effort. I promise, once you try this One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne, it’s going to become a go-to in your repertoire. I absolutely adore seeing your culinary creations, so please, once you’ve whipped up this dish, share your experience! Tag me on social media, leave a comment below, or send me a message telling me how it turned out. Did you try a variation? Did your family rave about it? I’m always eager to hear your thoughts and see your beautiful photos. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with delicious aromas and joyful memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They tend to stay even more moist and tender during cooking and often have a richer flavor. The cooking time will be very similar, perhaps just a few minutes longer, so ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have penne? Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can! This recipe is quite flexible with pasta shapes. Short, sturdy pastas that can hold up to the sauce and absorb flavors well are ideal. Good alternatives include rotini, ziti, farfalle (bow-tie), or even rigatoni. Just make sure to check the package directions for approximate cooking times and adjust the liquid if necessary to ensure it cooks through properly in the pan.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a kick, there are several easy ways to amp up the heat! You can add a generous pinch (or more!) of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion. Drizzle in a bit of your favorite hot sauce (like sriracha or a smoky chipotle sauce) to the BBQ mixture. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper when you sauté the aromatics.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time or freeze it?

For best results, I recommend enjoying this dish fresh, right after it’s cooked, as the pasta can sometimes become a bit soft if reheated too many times. However, leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is possible, but the pasta texture can change upon thawing and reheating; it might become softer than desired. If you do freeze it, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

Can I add more vegetables to the One Pan Tangy Honey Bbq Chicken Penne?

Definitely! Adding more vegetables is a fantastic idea to boost nutrition and flavor. Sliced bell peppers (any color), chopped onions, corn kernels, or even sliced zucchini can be added to the pan when you add the pasta and broth. For leafy greens, stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, just until they wilt. This makes it an even more complete and colorful meal!

One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

This Easy One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is your answer for a flavorful, low-cleanup meal. Combining tender chicken, sweet and savory honey BBQ sauce, and penne pasta, it’s designed for deliciousness and convenience, making weeknight dinners stress-free.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 oz penne pasta, cooked
• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish
• Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat chicken dry; cut into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Step 2
   Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Step 4
   To the same skillet, add honey BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and optional soy sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Step 5
   Return seared chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta. Stir to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
6. Step 6
   Sprinkle with shredded cheese, cover for 1-2 minutes to melt. Garnish with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.