Dinner

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

ByMarina Montclair November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner option that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a delicious honey barbecue sauce. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

A white bowl filled with penne pasta and pieces of chicken, all coated in a shiny reddish-brown sauce. The penne pasta is light brown with a smooth texture, arranged around the bowl. The chicken pieces are scattered evenly, showing a slightly crispy texture with some darker grilled spots. Small green herb bits are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The bowl is placed 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, then 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: Finish by topping the dish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before melting the cheese.
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the simmering step for added nutrition and color.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

A dark bowl filled with cooked penne pasta and pieces of chicken mixed with a shiny, thick red sauce. The pasta is light brown with a smooth texture, sitting under and around the tender chicken pieces that have a slightly grilled look. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color. The bowl 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 a different type of pasta?

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

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well and makes a convenient meal prep option for several days. Keep it refrigerated in portioned containers for easy lunches or dinners.