Introduction to One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Welcome to my kitchen, where I whip up delicious meals that bring joy to the table! Today, I’m excited to share my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. This dish is a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick. Imagine tender chicken coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, all mingling with perfectly cooked penne. It’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a game-changer for busy cooks like me. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one pan and minimal cleanup. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce creates a taste explosion that will have your family asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Ingredients for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, cubed chicken breast is the star of this dish, providing protein and flavor.
- BBQ sauce: Choose a smoky or sweet style to complement the honey. This sauce adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the tangy BBQ sauce, making every bite delightful.
- Penne pasta: This pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is packed with flavor.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, it adds a lovely richness and helps prevent sticking.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the overall taste of the dish.
- Chicken broth: This adds moisture and enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.
- Onion powder: A convenient way to add a savory depth without the hassle of chopping onions.
- Smoked paprika: This spice gives a subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples help bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. If you prefer a healthier option, whole wheat penne works beautifully too. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! Making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is as easy as pie. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken breast. Sauté the chicken until it’s golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because it locks in the flavors. Trust me, the aroma will have your family flocking to the kitchen!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute or so until the garlic becomes fragrant. This is where the magic happens! The spices will infuse the chicken with a delightful flavor that sets the stage for the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Mix in BBQ Sauce and Honey
Now, it’s time to whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl. Pour this sweet and tangy mixture over the chicken, stirring to coat it evenly. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible! Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all that deliciousness.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Broth
Here comes the fun part! Add the uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth directly into the skillet. Give everything a good stir to combine. This one-pan method means less cleanup, and the pasta will soak up all those tasty flavors as it cooks!
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. The anticipation will be worth it!
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like it saucier, drizzle a bit more BBQ sauce on top. Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
Tips for Success
- Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother!
- Don’t rush the sautéing step; golden chicken adds depth to the flavor.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch and vibrant color.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring; a spatula can also work.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but you can eyeball it if you’re confident!
- Cutting board and knife: For cubing the chicken and prepping garlic.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, meat-free meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy finish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh twist on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Drink Pairing: A chilled iced tea or lemonade complements the tangy flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and serve in colorful bowls for a vibrant table setting.
FAQs about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require adjustments.
How can I make this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne spicier?
If you’re looking for a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. You can also use a spicier BBQ sauce to amp up the heat!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, combine everything in the pan for a quick meal.
What can I serve with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or some warm garlic bread. The contrast of flavors will elevate your meal!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cooking my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is always a joyful experience. The aroma fills my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s a dish that brings my family together, sparking laughter and conversation around the table. The sweet and smoky flavors dance on our taste buds, making every bite a delight. Plus, the ease of preparation means I can spend more time enjoying the moment rather than stressing over cleanup. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures, just as it has in mine!
Print
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne: A Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful one-pan pasta dish featuring tender chicken, tangy honey BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked penne.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast (1 lb, cubed)
- BBQ sauce (1 cup, smoky or sweet style)
- Honey (2 tbsp)
- Penne pasta (12 oz)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Chicken broth (2 cups)
- Onion powder (1 tsp)
- Smoked paprika (½ tsp)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add chicken cubes, and cook until golden on all sides.
- Stir in garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until fragrant.
- Whisk BBQ sauce and honey together; pour over chicken and stir to coat evenly.
- Add uncooked penne and chicken broth directly into the pan; stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Adjust seasoning, drizzle extra BBQ sauce if desired, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot for that sticky, tangy perfection.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made with whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
