Name: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup (240ml) BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup (120ml) honey; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth; 12 oz (340g) penne pasta; 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup (30g) Parmesan cheese, grated; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Introduction

This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is a delicious and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. With a flavorful sauce that combines BBQ sauce, honey, and spices, it’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly without sacrificing taste.

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with penne pasta and grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is golden yellow with a smooth texture, and the chicken is covered in a glossy, dark brown sauce with a slightly sticky look. The chicken pieces sit on top of the pasta and are cut into small strips, showing tender, juicy meat inside. Green herbs are sprinkled on top as a garnish, adding a touch of fresh color. The background has a white marbled texture, enhancing the dish’s warm colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup (240ml) BBQ sauce
1/2 cup (120ml) honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
12 oz (340g) penne pasta
1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup (30g) Parmesan cheese, grated
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the chicken broth and penne pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure the pasta is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat it with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pasta. Cover the skillet until the cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For added spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes along with the garlic powder and paprika.
You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
If you want a smokier flavor, try using smoked BBQ sauce.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken and pasta. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to restore the sauce’s consistency.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a black frying pan filled with cooked penne pasta mixed with pieces of chicken. The pasta is coated in a reddish-orange sauce with visible specks of black pepper and seasoning. The chicken pieces are light brown, mixed evenly throughout the pasta. Steam rises slightly from the dish, showing it is hot. The pan is placed on a stove with a clear focus on the food inside. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and can add more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ingredients in advance but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh to avoid sogginess. Store the cooked sauce and chicken separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.