One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

The aroma of sizzling chicken combined with tangy honey BBQ sauce fills the kitchen, promising a delightful meal. This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and satisfying dish that takes just about 30 minutes to make, showcasing the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of chicken, pasta, and sauce not only makes for an easy dinner but also a comforting one.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also versatile enough to serve at gatherings or family get-togethers. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored, saving you valuable cooking time later on.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan means minimal cleanup after dinner.
• The penne pasta absorbs the rich honey BBQ flavor.
• Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy evenings.
• Optional garnish adds a pop of color and freshness.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful meal:

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 2 cups penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Serving

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Choose low-sodium broth for less salt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Any BBQ sauce can replace honey BBQ sauce.
• Fresh herbs can replace parsley for garnish.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps:

Heat oil

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Cook chicken

Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.

Stir in sauce

Stir in the honey BBQ sauce and chicken broth.

Add pasta

Add the penne pasta and stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and has absorbed some of the sauce.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the pasta texture may change.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add a splash of water if pasta gets dry.
• Use a lid while simmering to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
• Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables for balance.