Dinner

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

ByLily Cross November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and satisfying dinner that combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors all in one easy skillet meal. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich honey barbecue sauce, it’s a weeknight winner that the whole family will love.

A bowl of cooked penne pasta mixed with pieces of chicken, all coated in a shiny red tomato sauce. The penne pasta is pale yellow with soft edges, and the chicken pieces are light golden brown with a slight crispy look. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The bowl is white, set on a white marbled surface, with the sauce giving a glossy, rich finish over the pasta and chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the honey barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Add the uncooked penne pasta and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, try adding a pinch of chipotle powder alongside the smoked paprika.
Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, or thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
Swap penne for rigatoni, ziti, or any pasta shape you have on hand.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese before adding the cheese topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but retains good flavor when reheated carefully.

How to Serve

This image shows a black bowl filled with a dish made of penne pasta and pieces of chicken, both covered in a shiny reddish-brown sauce. The penne pasta is evenly mixed with the chicken pieces, which are slightly browned and look tender. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a little color contrast to the warm tones of the pasta and sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape that cooks in about 12-15 minutes works well. Just adjust the simmering time slightly if needed for your chosen pasta.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pasta and ensure that your honey barbecue sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free varieties. Tamari is a good soy sauce substitute for gluten-free cooking.

Lily Cross