Have you ever found yourself craving a comforting and delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup? You’re in luck! The One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is just what you need. This recipe combines the luscious flavors of honey BBQ with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Not only is this dish easy to make, but it also uses just one pan, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into what makes this dish special and how you can whip it up in no time!
Why We Love This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a one-pan meal. The convenience it offers is a blessing for any home cook. With the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you get a delightful blend of flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and slight smokiness from the paprika, creating a flavor experience that captures your taste buds. Plus, you can customize the heat level with crushed red pepper flakes or simply enjoy it as is. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings the family together around the dinner table.
Ingredients about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
To prepare this delightful meal, gather the following ingredients. Each component plays a specific role in elevating the dish, so make sure you have everything ready!
- 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
How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Directions
Making this dish is as straightforward as it gets. Follow these steps to create a flavorful meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Giving the pan enough time to heat will ensure that the chicken sears beautifully, creating that desirable golden brown color.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Be sure to season them generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. These seasonings will help to create a flavorful crust on the chicken as it sears. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on the outside. After this, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- With the chicken removed, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up those sticky brown bits from the bottom. This step adds extra flavor to your sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Stir in the honey BBQ sauce along with the optional soy sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This process helps the flavors meld together, making your sauce irresistibly delicious.
- Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet. Pour in enough water to barely cover the pasta, then give it a good stir to ensure it’s all well mixed. Cover the skillet and let the pasta simmer for approximately 12-15 minutes. During this time, stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure it’s cooked evenly.
- After the pasta has become tender, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Gently stir everything together and let it combine for another 2-3 minutes over low heat.
- Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Finally, serve your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne warm, topped with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Enjoy every mouthful of this comforting meal!
How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Serving this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is an event in itself. Each portion is colorful and inviting, promising a fantastic dining experience. You can serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate it up for a more formal presentation.
Consider complementing this dish with a simple side salad to add freshness. A garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the savory flavors of the pasta beautifully. You could also serve some garlic bread on the side, which makes for a perfect pairing to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.
If you’re hosting a family dinner or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, offering drinks that match the dish adds a nice touch. Lemonade or iced tea can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken pasta.
Expert Tips: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Creating a dish that truly delights the palate often comes down to a few crucial tips. Here are some expert suggestions that can elevate your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne experience:
- Choose Quality Chicken: The chicken is the star of this dish, so opt for high-quality, fresh chicken. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender, but breasts work just as well if that’s your preference.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the best texture, make sure to cook the penne to an al dente finish. It should still have a slight bite to it, which will help it absorb the flavors without getting mushy.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you love a saucier dish, feel free to add more honey BBQ sauce. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of chicken broth and water to ensure the pasta cooks properly.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and color, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix. Add them when you reintroduce the chicken to the pan for a one-pot meal that’s even more satisfying.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, don’t shy away from trying other cheese options like gouda or pepper jack for a unique spin.
How to Store One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers (or if you made a double batch), storing your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals while stirring to ensure it’s heated evenly. If the pasta seems too dry after refrigeration, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.
Variation of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
One of the best aspects of cooking is the opportunity to experiment. The One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is versatile, and you can put your spin on it. Here are some variations to consider:
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Penne: If you’re a fan of heat, incorporate a spicy barbecue sauce or add chopped jalapeños. This will kick the flavor up a notch and deliver a satisfying heat level.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for plant-based protein options like chickpeas or lentils. You could also use roasted vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant to create heartiness without meat.
- Pasta Variety: Experiment with other pasta shapes if you don’t have penne. Fusilli, shells, or even spaghetti would work beautifully and give the dish a different texture.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end to brighten the flavors. These herbs can bring a refreshing note to the dish and enhance its aromatic qualities.
- Creamy Version: For a richer sauce, add some cream or cream cheese to the BBQ sauce. This will give a luscious texture and taste that’s utterly indulgent.
FAQ
What is the best way to ensure my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne comes out flavorful?
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving a flavorful dish. Make sure to season the chicken well, and don’t skip on the deglazing step as it adds depth to the dish. Also, feel free to adjust the ingredients such as the honey BBQ sauce to match your taste preferences.
Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It also reheats well, making it great for meal prep or quick lunches.
What can I serve with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
This dish pairs well with a light salad and garlic bread. You can also serve it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade to enhance the meal experience.
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Mixing Bowl
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
- 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 pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits.
- Stir in the honey BBQ sauce and optional soy sauce, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add uncooked penne pasta and enough water to just cover the pasta. Stir well, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is tender, return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything together, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with chopped parsley and cheese before serving.
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