One-Pan Tangy Honey Chicken

This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and comforting with minimal cleanup. It brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a lively sauce that hits both sweet and smoky notes.

I threw this together after a hectic day and was amazed by how the sauce clings to the pasta and chicken, making it a family favorite almost instantly.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: provide juicy flavorful meat Choose fresh cuts without excess liquid for best results
• Uncooked penne pasta: works well to absorb the sauce Pick good quality pasta with a firm texture
• Honey BBQ sauce: gives the meal its sweet tangy backbone Opt for your favorite brand or homemade sauce for a personal touch
• Olive oil for searing: adds richness and prevents sticking Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor
• Low sodium chicken broth: creates the cooking liquid and intensifies flavor Choose a broth that tastes fresh and balanced
• Soy sauce optional: but adds umami depth Look for naturally brewed soy sauce to avoid artificial tastes
• Smoked paprika: lends a warm smoky note Pick a vibrant fresh tin for maximum aroma
• Garlic powder: boosts savory layers Freshly ground powder is best if available
• Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all elements Do not over salt as the sauce already has seasoning

Instructions

Build The Base:

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season evenly with salt pepper smoked paprika and garlic powder. Cook them without moving too much until they develop a golden brown crust about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and builds a rich flavor foundation. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside.

Deglaze and Develop Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth to the hot skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pan This caramelized residue boosts flavor. Stir in the honey BBQ sauce and the soy sauce if using. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors and thicken slightly.

Cook the Pasta Together:

Add the uncooked penne to the skillet. Pour in enough water to barely cover the pasta about 1 to 1 and a half cups. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let the pasta simmer gently while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking This usually takes 12 to 15 minutes. The pasta will absorb the cooking liquid and sauce creating a creamier texture.

Combine and Finish:

Once the pasta is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together well and let it simmer an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This step allows the chicken to warm through again and the flavors to blend perfectly. Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately and garnish if desired.

My favorite ingredient here is smoked paprika. It brings a subtle smoky complexity that elevates the sauce without overpowering it. A memorable moment was when my partner declared this dish worthy of company dinner after the very first bite.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out. This recipe holds up well for next day lunches.

Ingredient swaps

You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts depending on your preference or budget Thighs stay juicier but breasts are leaner. For a vegetarian twist substitute the chicken with firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms and increase the broth slightly to help cook the pasta.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans complement the smoky sweet flavors well. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds brightness.

This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights. Enjoy making it your own by trying different BBQ sauces or adding fresh veggies.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be substituted, but they may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ What type of pasta works best in this dish?

Penne pasta is recommended as it holds the sauce well, but other short pastas like rigatoni or ziti can also be used effectively.

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

Deglazing with chicken broth lifts the browned bits and boosts flavor complexity, but water can be used as a substitute if preferred.

→ How can I add vegetables to the dish?

Consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions after searing the chicken to soften slightly before adding the liquids and pasta.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce?

Yes, modify the honey BBQ sauce amount or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for more tang, or extra honey for sweetness.