Name: Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for a Cozy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Main protein source); to taste Salt (Essential seasoning); to taste Pepper (Essential seasoning); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For browning the chicken); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Signature flavor base); 1/4 cup Honey (Balances tang with sweetness); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Adds acidity); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Adds sharpness and complexity); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Mild aroma); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Provides warmth and smokiness); 2 cups Chicken Broth (Infuses flavor); 8 ounces Penne Pasta (Captures sauce); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Adds creaminess); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Delivers nutty flavor); to taste Fresh Parsley (Garnish)

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As I flipped through my favorite cookbook, the vibrant images of bustling kitchens and mouth-watering dishes sparked an idea. How about whipping up a dish that blends two beloved favorites? Enter the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! This easy dinner checks all the boxes, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and creamy cheeses—all nestled with perfectly cooked penne. With just 15 minutes of prep and a mere 25 minutes of cooking time, it’s a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at around 600 calories per serving. Want to know how to create a meal that makes your kitchen feel like a welcoming oasis? Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

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Why is this recipe a weeknight winner?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor, making it perfect for busy days.

Comforting Flavor Explosion: The blend of honey BBQ sauce with creamy cheeses creates an irresistible taste that satisfies cravings.

Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Family and friends will love the savory chicken combined with tender penne, making it a go-to dish for gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by adding veggies or swapping pasta shapes to keep things exciting! If you love quick meals, you might also enjoy our tasty Garlic Butter Chicken or a comforting bowl of Thai Chicken Soup.

Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; provides tenderness and absorbs the honey BBQ sauce flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for browning the chicken without sticking to the skillet.

For the Sauce
• BBQ Sauce – Delivers the signature smoky-tangy flavor base for the dish.
• Honey – Balances tang with sweetness, also helping to thicken the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
• Dijon Mustard – Contributes sharpness and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – Offers mild aroma; can be substituted with fresh garlic if desired.
• Smoked Paprika – Provides warmth and a hint of smokiness for added flavor depth.

For the Pasta
• Chicken Broth – Cooking liquid that infuses flavor into the penne.
• Penne Pasta – Hollow shape that captures sauce and cooks with other ingredients.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds rich creaminess and mild sweetness upon melting.
• Parmesan Cheese – Delivers nutty flavor and texture; can be substituted with Pecorino.

For the Finish
• Fresh Parsley – A vibrant garnish that adds freshness and visual appeal.

Dive into this comforting dish with a delightful blend of flavors! It’s time to savor the goodness of Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a generous pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. This essential step enhances the chicken’s natural flavor, preparing it for a delicious taste. Once seasoned, set the chicken aside while you get the skillet ready.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the pan, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown; flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Once browned, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until the flavors meld and the sauce becomes aromatic.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add 2 cups of chicken broth and 8 ounces of penne pasta to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring until the penne is tender and has absorbed the delicious honey BBQ flavor.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
After the pasta has cooked, return the browned chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to ensure it is coated in the luscious sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, just until the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully in this Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the chicken and pasta mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a gooey, comforting layer that envelops the dish. The melted cheese will add richness to your already delectable dinner.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the meal. Serve warm, enjoying the blend of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and flavorful penne in every comforting bite.

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Expert Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Perfectly Spaced Chicken: Ensure there’s enough space between chicken pieces in the skillet to achieve even browning and avoid steaming instead of searing.
Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the penne while it cooks; different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments to ensure it’s al dente, enhancing your dish’s overall texture.
Retain Moisture: When storing leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to prevent the Honey BBQ Chicken Penne from drying out and maintain its creamy consistency.
Veggie Boost: For added nutrition, toss in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process, blending flavor and health effortlessly.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to personalize the dish with additional spices or swap out cheeses to cater to your family’s taste preferences, transforming each meal into a unique experience!

How to Store and Freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in a well-sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy meal prep!

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish moist and delicious. Microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring it’s hot all the way to the center.

Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in the fridge or freezer to prevent condensation and ice crystals.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey BBQ Chicken Penne are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken with salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum flavor infusion. Additionally, you can cook the penne and prepare the sauce (combining honey, vinegar, mustard, and spices) 3 days ahead; just refrigerate them separately to maintain quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the cooked penne and chicken into the skillet, and finish with melting the cheeses—as good as freshly made! This way, your comforting meal is on the table with minimal fuss and effort.

Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun twists and substitutions, catering to your family’s taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Swap out regular penne for gluten-free pasta, ensuring your dish suits dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during cooking for a nutritious crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the sauce.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or goat cheese for a tangy taste that adds an interesting layer to the dish.
Quick Marinade: Marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor depth, making your dish even more scrumptious.
Pasta Shapes: Don’t limit yourself to penne—try rotini or fusilli to change up the mouthfeel and fun factor of this comforting meal.
Expanded Flavor: Incorporate a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the BBQ sauce for an added umami twist that elevates your dish.
One-Pan Wonder: To simplify even further, toss in pre-cooked rotisserie chicken right before serving, reducing the hassle and time while keeping it delicious.

With these variations, you can create a tantalizing experience every time you whip up this Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. If you’re seeking other exciting meal ideas, I highly recommend checking out our delightful Korean Chicken Bao or indulgent Honey Lavender Ice for a sweet finish. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

The perfect sides can transform your delicious main dish into a full-fledged feast perfect for weeknight gatherings.

Garlic Bread: The warmth of freshly baked garlic bread makes a wonderful companion, ideal for soaking up any BBQ sauce left lingering on your plate.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a creamy dressing bring a refreshing crunch that balances the comfort of your creamy pasta. It’s a classic crowd-pleaser!
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds vibrant color and charred flavor, bringing a delightful smokiness to complement the tangy dish.
Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy cabbage salad adds a crisp bite and a refreshing contrast, making each forkful exciting and flavorful.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes create a satisfying, sweet contrast to the tangy BBQ chicken, while also offering a rich, hearty element.
Sparkling Water: To wash it all down, effervescent sparkling water with a splash of lemon is light and refreshing, perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.

When it comes to this delectable Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, the right sides enhance your meal and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

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Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the main protein for your Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. They’re perfect for soaking up the flavors of the BBQ sauce and remain tender throughout the cooking process. If you’re looking for a slightly richer flavor, you can also use chicken thighs, which provide juiciness!

How do I store leftovers of Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation and maintain flavors. When ready to enjoy again, just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can! To freeze, ensure the dish is completely cooled, then transfer to a well-sealed container or freezer bags. It’s best to portion it out for easy meal prep. Honey BBQ Chicken Penne can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

What if my penne pasta is overcooked?
Overcooked pasta can happen! If your penne turns mushy, try to monitor it closely while simmering in the sauce next time. Ideally, you’d want it al dente, with a slight bite. If it does become too soft, you can still serve it—they’re still flavorful! For future meals, check the pasta at the lower end of the cooking time and taste-test for doneness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets by using gluten-free penne and ensuring your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well. Additionally, be aware of allergies; if you’re serving someone with dairy sensitivities, you can try omitting the cheeses or using dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or nutritional yeast to keep the flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach can enhance both the nutrition and flavor of your Honey BBQ Chicken Penne. Simply add them when you combine the sauce ingredients and allow them to cook until tender before adding the chicken broth and penne. It’s an easy way to boost the meal’s health quotient while keeping it delicious!