One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and flavorful without a big mess. It combines juicy chicken with tender pasta all cooked in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that hits the spot every time.

I tossed this together after a busy day when I didn’t feel like juggling multiple pots. It quickly became a favorite to make when I want a filling meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs or breasts offer juicy tender bites: Thighs stay moist but breasts work well if you want leaner meat.
• Penne pasta: is perfect for holding the sauce and cooks evenly in the pan. Choose good quality dried pasta for best texture.
• Honey BBQ sauce: brings the sweet tangy flavor that makes this dish special. Look for a BBQ sauce with a nice balance of smoky and sweet notes.
• Olive oil: helps sear the chicken for a golden crust building flavor right from the start. Use extra virgin olive oil for richer taste.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: adds depth without overpowering. Using low-sodium lets you control the saltiness better.
• Soy sauce: is optional but adds an umami boost which balances the sweetness particularly well.
• Smoked paprika and garlic powder: season the chicken adding warmth and a faint smoky character. Freshly ground black pepper and salt make all the flavors pop.
• Chopped parsley as garnish: adds a fresh herbal note and brightens the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: bring heat if you like your food spicy.
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese: melts into the pasta and adds creaminess. Choose a cheese you like that melts well.

Instructions

Build The Base:

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. This ensures the chicken sears properly instead of stewing.

Cook The Chicken:

Add cut chicken pieces to the pan and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook without stirring too frequently to allow a golden brown crust to form. This caramelization adds great flavor and texture. Sear for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Deglaze The Pan:

Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits pack a lot of flavor so don’t skip this step.

Create The Sauce:

Stir in honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for two to three minutes so the flavors meld and thicken slightly.

Add Pasta And Water:

Add uncooked penne pasta to the skillet and pour in enough water to just cover the pasta, around one to one and a half cups. Using just enough water helps the sauce stay rich rather than diluted.

Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender:

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium low. Let everything simmer for twelve to fifteen minutes stirring occasionally so pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Finish The Dish:

Return the chicken to the skillet stirring well to combine and warm through. Simmer for another two to three minutes so the sauce really infuses the chicken and pasta.

Adjust And Garnish:

Taste the dish and season with additional salt, pepper or crushed red pepper flakes if you want more heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley and cheese on top to finish.

Honey BBQ sauce is the standout ingredient delivering sweet tang and smoky undertones. I remember making this dish for my family during a last minute get-together and everyone asked for seconds. It became an instant comfort food favorite thanks to its balance of flavor and simplicity.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge.

Ingredient Swaps

Chicken thighs can be swapped for boneless turkey or even firm fish if you want a lighter twist. Penne pasta can be replaced with other short pastas like rigatoni or ziti as they hold sauce well. Try using a different flavored BBQ sauce such as spicy chipotle or a maple variety for a seasonal twist.

Serving Ideas

Serve this dish with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for freshness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a perfect side to mop up the extra sauce. Add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

This recipe has become my go-to for busy nights when I want a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce with tender chicken and cheesy pasta always feels like a little celebration after a long day.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well. Thighs offer more tenderness and juiciness, while breasts provide a leaner option.

→ Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?

Yes, pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How can I make the sauce spicier?

Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper will boost the heat while enhancing the tangy BBQ flavor.

→ Is it necessary to deglaze the pan with chicken broth?

Deglazing helps lift the fond (browned bits) from the pan for richer flavor and creates the base for the sauce.

→ Can I use a different cheese for topping?

Cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend provide a creamy finish that melts nicely over the dish.