Irresistible One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a dish that combines the bold flavors of honey, tangy BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds like a well-rehearsed flash mob. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as sweet honey mingles with smoky BBQ—it’s like a party for your senses, and everyone’s invited!

This dish brings back memories of cozy family gatherings where laughter and good food flowed freely. Picture this: my cousin once tried to impress everyone by claiming he could eat an entire pan of this chicken penne. Spoiler alert: he didn’t make it past the first helping! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this dish has a charm that makes every occasion feel special. Buckle up because you’re in for an amazing flavor adventure!

I vividly remember the first time I made this dish—it was met with cheers from my family and requests for seconds within minutes.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you’re feeling fancy or have dietary needs.

• Honey: Choose pure honey for optimal sweetness; it’s the secret weapon in this flavor bomb.

• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand; smoky flavors work best, bringing depth to the dish.

• Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and sweetness; choose firm ones for crunch.

• Onion: Yellow onions work wonders here; they caramelize beautifully and add sweetness.

• Fresh Garlic: Fresh cloves elevate the flavor profile; never settle for pre-minced!

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps things balanced and flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.

• Olive Oil: A splash of high-quality olive oil helps sauté ingredients while adding richness.

• Dried Oregano: Just a pinch enhances that Italian flair; you won’t regret it.

• Pine Nuts (Optional): Toasted pine nuts add delightful crunch if you want to jazz things up.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: Gather your tools and get ready to whip up some magic.

Prep Your Ingredients: Chop your onion and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic until fragrant—this is where the fun begins!

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables: Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers into the skillet after removing chicken. Sauté until onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Mingle Flavors: Add minced garlic and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir continuously until garlic becomes fragrant—this should take about 1 minute.

Create the Sauce: Mix honey and BBQ sauce in a bowl while waiting for veggies to soften. Pour mixture into skillet along with chicken broth for extra flavor.

Cook Pasta: Stir in uncooked penne pasta and cover skillet. Simmer on low heat, letting everything bubble together until pasta is al dente—about 12-15 minutes.

Serve warm with optional toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top for added texture!

And there you have it—a one-pan wonder that’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights or when guests come over unannounced! Trust me; they’ll be asking for your secret recipe before dessert even hits the table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing your chicken to lock in flavor, then quickly cook the pasta while preparing the tangy sauce. This efficient method ensures everything is ready at the same time, maximizing flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pasta types or add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. You can also play with spices to suit your taste—maybe some chili flakes for a kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave until warm or sauté on low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Creating my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne was a game-changer during busy weekdays when I needed something fast yet delicious. My friends devoured it, leaving me with empty plates and happy hearts.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat penne for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole wheat penne adds fiber and has a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?

Maple syrup works well as a natural sweetener if you’re looking for an alternative to honey.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge; just reheat before serving for best results.

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One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

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One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful fusion of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce, tossed with tender chicken and al dente penne pasta. This easy, crowd-pleasing dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings joy to any dining occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, it promises an explosion of flavors in every bite!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1/2 cup pure honey
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Gather and prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion and bell pepper, and mincing the garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and oregano; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. In a bowl, mix honey and BBQ sauce, then pour into the skillet along with chicken broth.
6. Add uncooked penne pasta to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat until pasta is al dente (approximately 12-15 minutes).
7. Serve warm topped with optional toasted pine nuts.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg