Create One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in Just 30 Minutes!

Whip up a mouthwatering meal in no time with this easy and flavorful One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! This one-skillet wonder combines juicy chicken, tender penne pasta, and a tangy-sweet honey BBQ sauce for a comforting and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Get ready to dive into a saucy, cheesy pasta dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes!

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The Appeal of One-Pan Meals

One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy home cooks. With minimal cleanup and quick prep times, these simple-yet-satisfying recipes make weeknight dinners a breeze. The One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is no exception, allowing you to enjoy a delicious pasta dish without the hassle of dirtying multiple pots and pans. Just toss everything into a single skillet and let the flavors meld together for a complete meal in one pan.

Ingredients for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. At the heart of the dish are boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, which provide a juicy protein boost. The penne pasta cooks right in the pan, soaking up all the wonderful flavors. As for the sauce, a blend of honey and tangy barbecue sauce creates the signature sweet-and-savory taste. Rounding out the dish are aromatic garlic, savory soy sauce, and a dash of smoky paprika.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the most tender and flavorful results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The dark meat stays moist and juicy even when cooked through. Chicken breasts also work well, but be mindful not to overcook them. Either way, be sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking for even doneness and easy incorporation into the pasta.

Penne Pasta Tips

Penne is the perfect pasta shape for this dish, with its tubular form and ridges that help the sauce cling. For best results, use dried penne and add it directly to the skillet with the other ingredients. The pasta will cook right in the flavorful sauce and broth, absorbing all those delicious flavors as it becomes tender.

Honey BBQ Sauce Choices

The honey BBQ sauce is the star of the show, providing a sweet and tangy backbone to the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. You can use your favorite store-bought variety or make a quick homemade version by combining honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and spices. Either way, the honey BBQ sauce will infuse the entire dish with its irresistible flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sautéing the Chicken

Begin by heating a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Sauté the chicken until it’s nicely browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Adding the Sauce and Broth

Next, pour in the honey BBQ sauce and low-sodium chicken broth. If you’d like an extra flavor boost, stir in a tablespoon of soy sauce as well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Incorporating the Pasta

Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta directly to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged and coated in the sauce. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Simmering to Perfection

As the pasta simmers, the sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together beautifully. Keep a close eye on the pan, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer. The end result should be a rich, saucy pasta dish with perfectly cooked chicken throughout.

Finishing Touches

Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, you’re ready to serve! Top the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color. For an extra kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese also makes a delicious finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe packs a nutritional punch while delivering big on flavor. Each serving contains approximately 500 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 45g of carbs, 35g of protein, and 15g of fat. To make it a bit lighter, you can use lean chicken breasts, reduce the amount of oil, or incorporate more vegetables like broccoli or spinach.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this one-pan pasta dish is that it’s incredibly versatile. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Vegans and vegetarians can omit the chicken and use tofu or plant-based protein instead. To add more veggies, try tossing in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

Alternative Sauce Ideas

While the honey BBQ sauce is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with different flavor profiles by using alternative sauces. For a creamy twist, try a garlic Parmesan sauce. Or, for a spicier kick, opt for a buffalo or sriracha-based sauce. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to suit your taste buds.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Bacon Chicken Grilled Cheese Melts
• Smoky Bacon BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Melt
• One-Pot Ranch Chicken, Bacon, and Broccoli Pasta

FAQs for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

What ingredients are needed to make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

To make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you will typically need the following ingredients: penne pasta, chicken breast (or thighs), honey, BBQ sauce, garlic, onion, bell peppers, chicken broth, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare and cook One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

The entire process usually takes about 30-40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. This makes it a quick and convenient meal option for busy weeknights.

Can I substitute the chicken in the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as tofu, shrimp, or even turkey. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat entirely and add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources.

How do I store leftovers of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

Conclusion

Get ready to impress your family and friends with the mouthwatering One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! This easy, one-skillet meal delivers big on flavor, combining juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a delectable honey BBQ sauce. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. So why not give it a try and savor the sweet and tangy goodness in every bite?

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