Dinner

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

ByMarina Montclair February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one skillet. It’s an easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with penne pasta mixed with pieces of chicken. The pasta and chicken are coated in a glossy, orange-brown sauce with visible herbs like parsley scattered throughout. The sauce has a smooth texture and covers the pasta and chicken evenly, giving the dish a rich and slightly shiny appearance. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
1 ½ cups water or chicken broth
¾ cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky variety)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the pan to deglaze and lift any browned bits.
Step 4: Stir in uncooked penne pasta. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything well. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Step 8: Serve hot directly from the skillet and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try using smoked BBQ sauce or add a pinch of chipotle powder.
Swap penne for another pasta shape like fusilli or rigatoni if preferred.
Add some veggies such as bell peppers or spinach during the pasta cooking step for added nutrition.
If you like a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of penne pasta mixed with chunks of chicken in a reddish-orange sauce. The pasta is light brown with ridges and is evenly coated with the sauce, which looks smooth and slightly glossy. Small pieces of green herbs are scattered throughout. The chicken pieces are white with a tender texture, also covered in the sauce, and some black pepper specks are visible. The dish fills the frame fully against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and the best texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before dicing and cooking.