One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy days, and this one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is a crowd-pleaser. With a delightful blend of flavors, it combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This dish not only tastes great, but it also minimizes cleanup time, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Why We Love This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne becomes an instant favorite for a variety of reasons. First, it offers unbeatable convenience. You can cook everything in one pan, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The combination of tender chicken, with its juicy texture, and al dente penne pasta creates a satisfying bite that is hard to resist.
The tangy sweet sauce elevates the entire dish, providing a flavorful kick that complements the chicken perfectly. Plus, you can customize the seasoning according to your family’s taste preferences, making it an adaptable option. This recipe also allows for easily using leftovers, ensuring no food goes to waste. Whether you’re hosting friends, cooking for your family, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this one-pan dish delivers both flavor and simplicity, making it a repeat recipe you’ll treasure.
Ingredients for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the penne pasta and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
While the pasta cooks, mix the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl. Once the pasta is ready, pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken and pasta, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Serving this one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is as simple as it gets. You can dish it out straight from the skillet for a casual yet inviting presentation. Think of using pasta bowls or deep plates to showcase the saucy goodness. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top to enhance the dish’s visual appeal and bring a hint of freshness.
Pair this meal with a green side salad for a refreshing contrast. A light dressing drizzled over mixed greens complements the rich flavors of the dish. Some crusty bread or garlic bread on the side makes for excellent dipping and adds to the overall experience. As you serve, the warm, comforting aromas will surely entice your guests or family members to dig right in!
Expert Tips for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
To ensure your one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips. First, cut the chicken into uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking. If you’re looking for more flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
Stay attentive while the pasta simmers in the broth to avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring that every piece gets the right amount of sauce. Adjust the BBQ sauce quantity depending on your sweetness preference—more sauce means a sweeter dish, and less sauce keeps the dish savory.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese on top. If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, try cheddar or pepper jack. Lastly, don’t shy away from adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to elevate the nutritional aspect. Toss them in with the chicken to create a colorful, vibrant dish that everyone will love.
How to Store One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Storing your one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is easy if you follow a few steps. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps to preserve its flavors and texture. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Divide the penne into meal-size containers, and freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or chicken broth during reheating to keep the pasta from drying out. Enjoy the delightful flavors just as they were when freshly made.
Variations of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
This recipe is a fantastic base for many delicious variations. For a kick of heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking. Switching up the protein adds a new twist, too. Try using diced turkey, cooked shredded chicken, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Each brings its unique texture and flavor to the dish.
If you want to incorporate veggies without overpowering the dish, consider adding peas, mushrooms, or zucchini right before pouring in the BBQ sauce. They can cook quickly and add a nourishing element to the meal. If you’re aiming for a different flavor profile, try swapping out the barbecue sauce for a teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; penne is great, but rotini or farfalle can offer a fun, playful shape.
FAQ about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
You may have some questions about preparing and enjoying your one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne. One common question is, “Can I make this dish ahead of time?” Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just cook it according to the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat and serve.
Another question often asked is, “What if I don’t have penne pasta?” You can substitute with any short pasta shape, such as elbows, fusilli, or even whole wheat options for a healthier twist. As for the sauce, if you prefer a milder flavor, consider using less honey or a sweeter BBQ sauce.
Lastly, some wonder, “Can I use frozen chicken?” Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed well before cooking to avoid uneven cooking. Let this dish be a canvas for your culinary creativity, ensuring each version can be uniquely catered to individual tastes while keeping the essence of this delightful one-pan meal.
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Cooking the Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the penne pasta and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
Mixing the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, mix the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl. Once the pasta is ready, pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken and pasta, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Serving
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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