Description

This One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a bold, flavor-packed dish that brings together juicy chicken, penne pasta, and a sweet-smoky honey BBQ glaze — all cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup. It’s the perfect quick dinner for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Ideal for fans of BBQ chicken and pasta, this hearty, satisfying meal fits right into your collection of easy recipes, food ideas for family dinners, and one-pot comfort food favorites. If you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, weeknight meals, or flavorful pasta dishes — this recipe delivers.

Ingredients

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)

2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 cup honey BBQ sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Sear until browned, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Add the uncooked penne pasta. Pour in chicken broth, honey BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.

3. Reduce heat, cover with a lid, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

4. Once pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove lid. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese (if using) until melted.

5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley.

6. Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy!

Notes

Use a wide, nonstick skillet so the chicken sears properly instead of steaming.

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes if the sauce is too liquidy at the end.

Always taste your BBQ sauce before adding honey—balance is key.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 480
Sugar: 14
Sodium: 720
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 6
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 46
Fiber: 2
Protein: 32
Cholesterol: 75

Keywords: honey bbq chicken penne, one pan pasta, easy dinner idea, weeknight meal, skillet pasta, comfort food