One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

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Imagine a sizzling skillet filled with tender bites of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a bold honey BBQ sauce that clings to every surface with rich, smoky sweetness. One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and fast. It’s a dish that brings together the heartiness of pasta and the sweet heat of barbecue in one harmonious bite, all made in a single pan for ultimate ease.

Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking for an easy recipe to impress at a casual dinner, this one-pan wonder is up to the task. With minimal cleanup, simple ingredients, and a huge flavor payoff, it’s destined to become a regular in your weekly dinner rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Everything cooks in a single pan—less mess, more flavor.
• Bold, tangy BBQ sauce meets sweet honey for a rich and balanced taste.
• Juicy chicken and al dente pasta make it hearty enough for a full meal.
• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
• A crowd-pleaser that works for kids, teens, and adults alike.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this recipe seamless, you’ll need a large nonstick skillet or sauté pan with a lid. This allows for even cooking and room for all the ingredients to come together without sticking. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula helps stir without damaging the pan, and a sharp knife is key for dicing the chicken evenly. Measuring cups and spoons ensure your ratios are spot on—especially for that sticky-sweet BBQ sauce blend.

These tools might seem simple, but each plays a vital role in keeping the process smooth and efficient.

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Preparation Tips

Start by prepping all your ingredients before you heat the pan—dice the chicken, measure out the sauce components, and have your pasta ready. Preheating the skillet is crucial for searing the chicken quickly, locking in moisture and flavor. Be generous with seasoning during the chicken stage, as it forms the base flavor for the dish. Once you add the pasta and liquids, keep the heat at a simmer and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta beautifully.

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Ingredients for One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for added heat)
• 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken to the pan and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. The goal is to lock in flavor and create a golden exterior.

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Step 2: Add the Pasta and Liquids

Once the chicken is browned, stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Pour in the chicken broth, honey BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together to combine evenly, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

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Step 3: Simmer and Cook Covered

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed into the dish.

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Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Garnish

Remove the lid and check for doneness. If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce for extra creaminess. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

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Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while the pasta is still hot and coated in the thickened tangy honey BBQ sauce. Pair it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

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Notes

One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is one of those dishes where simple ingredients transform into something bold and satisfying. The BBQ sauce and honey create a beautiful glaze that clings to the pasta and chicken, while the spices bring a touch of smokiness. If you’re using a store-bought BBQ sauce, go for one that’s not overly sweet—this gives you better balance when you add honey yourself. Homemade BBQ sauces can elevate this even more. For an extra kick, a few dashes of hot sauce stirred in before serving work wonders.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan: If your pan is too small, the chicken will steam instead of sear. Use a wide skillet.
• Undercooking or Overcooking Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers; al dente is key.
• Too Much Liquid Left: If it looks too watery after the cooking time, remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
• Using Too Sweet a Sauce: Some BBQ sauces are heavy on the sugar—taste yours before adding honey.
• Skipping Seasoning: The initial seasoning on the chicken lays the foundation for the flavor, so don’t hold back.

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Storage Instructions

Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring between each one. This dish does not freeze well due to the pasta’s texture change upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx.)

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Sugar: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli work great. Just avoid thin pastas like angel hair.

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?

Absolutely. Try turkey breast, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spicy. The chili powder adds warmth but not heat. You can omit or increase as desired.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Cook and refrigerate, then reheat gently. Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

What’s the best honey BBQ sauce to use?

Go for a balanced sauce—smoky and tangy with medium sweetness. Avoid overly sweet brands.

Is it gluten-free?

Not by default. Use gluten-free penne and double-check your BBQ sauce and broth.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and adjust cooking time as needed.

What sides go well with it?

Try garlic bread, roasted veggies, coleslaw, or a crisp garden salad.

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Conclusion

One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—flavorful, quick, comforting, and made with pantry staples. With its sweet and smoky kick, it satisfies both pasta lovers and BBQ fans in one skillet. Add it to your list of go-to meals when you want maximum taste with minimal effort.

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