When you think about a perfect weeknight dinner, what comes to mind? For many of you, it likely includes something simple, delicious, and easy to clean up afterward. Enter One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne—a dish that fulfills all these criteria. Combining the juicy flavor of chicken thighs or breasts, the comforting texture of penne pasta, and the delightful sweetness and tang of honey BBQ sauce, this recipe is a surefire way to win over your family or guests. Plus, it’s incredibly simple; everything cooks in just one pan. Let’s dive into what makes this dish such a beloved choice for busy evenings!
Why We Love This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe. One of the most significant benefits is its simplicity. You only need one pan to prepare this dish, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience. We know how time-consuming cooking can get, especially after a long day. This recipe allows you to savor the delightful blend of flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans to clean afterward.
Not only is this dish easy to make, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your personal taste preferences. Whether you want to spice it up with some heat or add a variety of vegetables, the possibilities are endless. It’s also family-friendly; kids will enjoy the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce while adults will appreciate the depth of flavors. Who says you can’t please everyone at the dinner table?
Ingredients about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
To create this mouthwatering One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Crushed red pepper flakes for optional heat
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for topping
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just filling but also bursting with unique flavors that make every bite enjoyable.
How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Directions
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking. Follow these steps to whip up your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne:
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure to sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- With the chicken removed, you may notice some brown bits left in the pan. This is perfect because it means you have some added flavor! Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any of those delicious brown bits as you do this.
- After deglazing, stir in the honey BBQ sauce and optional soy sauce. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes. The smell should already be enticing!
- Next, add the uncooked penne to the simmering sauce. Pour in enough water to barely cover the pasta—likely between 1 to 1½ cups, depending on what you see. Give it a gentle stir, then cover the skillet with a lid.
- Let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes. Occasional stirring is important here to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. Keep an eye on it until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
- Finally, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, allowing it to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. This enables all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, taste it for seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
And there you have it—your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is ready to serve!
How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Serving this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a simple task, yet it prepares you for delight. You can dish this incredible meal straight from the skillet for a rustic and homey touch. If you prefer, use individual plates for a more formal presentation.
Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley and some shredded cheese of your choice, either cheddar or mozzarella, for that satisfying touch. This will not only add flavor but also elevate the appearance of the dish, making it look even more inviting.
Pair it with a fresh side salad or a light vegetable dish to complement the richness of the honey BBQ sauce. A glass of sparkling water or iced tea can also enhance your meal. Whatever you choose, get ready to indulge in a delightful experience that is pleasing to both the palate and the eye!
Expert Tips: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
To ensure your experience making this dish goes smoothly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Chicken Variety: While the recipe specifies boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, you can also use chicken tenders for convenience. They cook quickly and are perfect for cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Cooking the Pasta: If you find the pasta isn’t cooking thoroughly, you might want to add a bit more water and adjust the simmering time. The goal is tender pasta, so ensure there’s enough liquid.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish throughout the cooking process. This helps you adjust the seasoning and get the flavors just right.
- Prepare in Advance: If you’re pressed for time, you can prep the chicken and cut your ingredients a day in advance. This will save you time in the kitchen on cooking day.
With these tips, you’ll not only simplify your cooking process but also elevate the final dish.
How to Store One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
If you happen to have leftovers (which is always a great thing!), store your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne properly to enjoy later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can keep it in the fridge, where it will last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just separate individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If frozen, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
One of the best parts about cooking is the ability to tailor recipes according to your taste or pantry availability. Here are some variations for you to consider:
- Vegetable Addition: Think about adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances nutrition but adds color and flavor.
- Pasta Choice: If you’re in the mood for something different, feel free to swap out the penne for another pasta type. Fusilli, farfalle, or even whole grain options will work beautifully.
- Sauce Swap: Spice things up by trying different barbecue sauces. You could use a spicy one for extra heat or even a teriyaki sauce for a completely new flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro before serving to add a fresh taste that balances well with the honey BBQ flavor.
These variations can turn a favorite dish into a new family tradition, keeping everyone excited about mealtime!
FAQ: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients in advance and follow the cooking directions when you’re ready to eat.
How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or incorporate a spicy BBQ sauce. For a milder version, simply omit any spicy elements.
What sides pair best with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread are great options that complement this dish well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite veggie protein. You might want to replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a complete vegetarian option.
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni
- 1 cup Honey BBQ Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 0.5 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce optional
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits. Stir in honey BBQ sauce and optional soy sauce, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add uncooked penne to the sauce, then add enough water to cover the pasta. Stir gently, then cover with a lid.
- Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, stir to combine, and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve, garnished with chopped parsley and cheese.
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