Dinner

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

ByGabriel Langdon November 22, 2025November 22, 2025

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a delicious sweet and smoky sauce, this dish comes together in just one skillet for easy cleanup.

A white bowl filled with three layers of food: the bottom layer is penne pasta cooked to a light golden yellow with a soft texture, the middle layer is chunks of grilled chicken showing a slightly charred brown color, and the top layer is a mix of red tomato sauce drizzled over the chicken and pasta, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs for garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. 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 to 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 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper alongside the smoked paprika.
Substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before adding the cheese.
Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can replace parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftover One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a black pan filled with penne pasta mixed with grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is coated in a reddish-orange sauce, giving it a glossy and rich look. The chicken pieces are golden brown with slightly charred edges, scattered evenly on top and mixed within the pasta. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled carefully on the dish, adding a fresh touch. The pan is placed 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 chicken cut into pieces for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cooking to ensure it cooks through properly.

Can I make this recipe with a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender.