Dinner

Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for a Quick Dinner Delight! Recipe

Name: Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for a Quick Dinner Delight! Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta; 1 cup honey barbecue sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley; Crushed red pepper flakes; Shredded cheddar cheese; Shredded mozzarella cheese

ByVictor Layne November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

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Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sweet and savory BBQ sauce all in one skillet. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

A bowl of cooked penne pasta mixed with pieces of chicken, all coated in a shiny red tomato sauce. The penne pasta is pale yellow with soft edges, and the chicken pieces are light golden brown with a slight crispy look. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The bowl is white, set on a white marbled surface, with the sauce giving a glossy, rich finish over the pasta and chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
1 cup honey barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the honey barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Add the uncooked penne pasta and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top of the dish. Cover again and let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of chipotle powder along with the smoked paprika.
Swap penne for rigatoni or ziti if preferred; adjust simmering time accordingly to cook the pasta perfectly.
Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for leaner meat or thighs for juicier, more flavorful pieces.
For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half toward the end of cooking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

This image shows a black bowl filled with a dish made of penne pasta and pieces of chicken, both covered in a shiny reddish-brown sauce. The penne pasta is evenly mixed with the chicken pieces, which are slightly browned and look tender. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a little color contrast to the warm tones of the pasta and sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking to avoid uneven texture and ensure food safety.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with firm tofu or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.