This dish is a comforting, flavor-packed weeknight dinner.
There is something magical about a dish that combines bold flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible tang in a single pan. This Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe is exactly that: simple, quick, and extremely satisfying. It combines smoky BBQ sauce, sweet honey, seasoned chicken, and al dente pasta to create a saucy, glossy, soul-warming dinner that your family will crave over and over.
This one-pan method saves time and dishes by cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb every bit of flavor. The end result is a deeply rich and comforting meal, ideal for busy nights or when you want something delicious without the hassle.
Inspired by popular comfort-food styles seen on major recipe platforms like AllRecipes, this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne brings together creamy pasta, tender chicken, and bold BBQ flavor in one easy skillet. It’s the kind of cozy weeknight dinner that’s both family-friendly and perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
This recipe (1X) yields 4 servings
- For the chicken & seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- salt & pepper to taste
- For the one-pan sauce & pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups penne pasta (dry)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky or sweet)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- For finishing
- fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
- Season the chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until lightly golden on all sides.
- Build the flavor base
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add pasta and liquids
Pour in the dry penne, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir well to coat the pasta.
- Simmer until tender
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Make it creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Finish and serve
Let it rest for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy warm.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan, minimal cleanup
- Creamy, tangy, smoky flavor combo
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Ready in under 30 minutes
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a full, comforting meal.
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepared up to two days ahead of time and refrigerated in an airtight container. When reheating, use a small amount of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
What type of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?
Both smoky and sweet barbecue sauces work well. Smoky BBQ adds depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, try honey or sweet-style BBQ sauce. For a softer flavor, mix barbecue with a little ketchup.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely. Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or full-fat coconut milk. Keep in mind that heavy cream produces the richest, creamiest results.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not really—it has a mild flavor. If you enjoy spicy foods, feel free to add more chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
What pasta shapes can I use instead of penne?
Penne works well, but rotini, rigatoni, fusilli, and ziti are also good options because they hold the sauce well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta brand.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream.
Can I freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?
Cream-based pasta dishes do not freeze perfectly, but you can store them for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then slowly reheat while stirring to help the sauce come together.