Description
Enjoy a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner with this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. Juicy chicken pieces are cooked with penne pasta in a rich honey barbecue sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan meal is both comforting and convenient, ideal for busy days.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta & Sauces
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup honey barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Liquids
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, then season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Sauces and Pasta: Stir in 1 cup honey barbecue sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet. Add the uncooked 8 ounces of penne pasta and bring the mixture to a boil to begin cooking the pasta in the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer the Dish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the pasta and chicken simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to a nice consistency.
- Optional Cheese Melt: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 1 to 2 minutes until gooey and delicious.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, top your one-pan chicken penne with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of freshness and mild heat. Serve the dish hot to enjoy its sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors perfectly combined.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for more flavorful, juicy meat.
- Adjust the amount of honey BBQ sauce depending on your preferred level of sweetness and tang.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the pan.
- For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: honey BBQ chicken, one pan dinner, chicken penne pasta, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, skillet recipe
