One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe
Introduction
This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sweet-savory BBQ sauce. It’s an effortless, comforting meal you can make all in one skillet.
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: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 to 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 heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Step 4: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and savory blend.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for more tenderness and flavor.
- Swap penne for other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli to change texture.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers or onions when cooking the chicken for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Storage
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or microwave until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw it completely before cutting and cooking to avoid uneven texture or undercooked pieces.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Make sure your barbecue sauce and soy sauce are also gluten-free to keep the dish compliant.
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One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a delicious honey barbecue sauce in a single skillet. With smoky spices and optional cheese toppings, it’s a satisfying, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
Sauce and Seasonings
- 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
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it is cooked through for maximum flavor.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Stir in the honey barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Then add the uncooked penne pasta, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let everything simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly. The pasta should be tender and the sauce will thicken during this time.
- Melt the Cheese (Optional): If you’d like a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the dish. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes until gooey and melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, top the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Serve the dish hot for a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts for leaner meat or thighs for juicier chicken.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Low-sodium chicken broth helps control saltiness, but adjust seasoning at the end to taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: one-pan, honey BBQ chicken, penne pasta, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, skillet dish
