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One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Juicy, golden-seared chicken and penne pasta are tossed in a tangy honey BBQ sauce and cooked together in one pan for an easy, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder; add olive oil and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned (chicken need not be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
  2. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey; stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add uncooked penne, reduce heat to medium–low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  4. Return the browned chicken to the skillet and simmer uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover for 1–2 minutes (or broil briefly) until melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion and serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust sweetness by using more or less honey depending on your BBQ sauce.
  • Add corn, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version—add it in step 4 instead of raw chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan honey BBQ chicken penne, easy dinner, pasta, chicken, weeknight meal