One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

When weeknights call for something quick and deeply satisfying with a little sweet smoky kick, this one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne never fails. Every bite delivers tender bites of chicken, pasta bathed in sticky sauce, and just a hint of spice all finished in a single skillet. It is my go-to when I want minimal cleanup but still crave full-on comfort.

I first tossed this together after a frantic day and now my husband lights up any time I say it is going on the stove. It is become a regular in our menu rotation and I never mind because who does not love less dishwashing

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: choose what you like best the thighs stay juicy but breasts work too try for organic or air-chilled chicken for the best flavor
• Uncooked penne pasta: look for bronze-cut dried pasta which holds sauce better
• Honey BBQ sauce: brings all the sweet and smoky notes I like to use a thicker brand for more cling
• Olive oil: a good fruity extra virgin adds a nice richness
• Low-sodium chicken broth: gives depth avoid high salt versions
• Soy sauce (optional): for extra umami choose a naturally fermented kind if possible
• Smoked paprika: this is what brings the barbecue feel and depth
• Garlic powder: for gentle savory warmth
• Salt and pepper to taste: stick with freshly cracked pepper and natural kosher salt for best results
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color use flat-leaf for the best flavor Crushed red pepper flakes for some heat Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese melts beautifully over the pasta

Instructions

Step One Sear the Chicken:

Pat your chicken pieces dry for the best browning. Heat olive oil in a broad non-stick skillet over medium high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Scatter in the chicken pieces and season generously with salt pepper smoked paprika and garlic powder. Sear for six to eight minutes stirring occasionally until the chicken is caramelized on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate with tongs and keep any browning in the pan.

Step Two Deglaze and Build the Sauce:

Pour chicken broth into the empty pan and use a spatula to scrape up all the golden brown bits stuck to the bottom. This is where so much flavor lives. Stir in honey BBQ sauce and soy sauce if using. Let this bubble gently for two to three minutes until everything is well combined and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step Three Cook the Pasta:

Add the uncooked penne straight into the skillet. Pour in just enough water to barely cover the top of the pasta about one to one and a half cups depending on your pan size. Give everything a gentle stir to coat the pasta in sauce. Cover tightly with a lid and let simmer over medium heat for twelve to fifteen minutes stirring every few minutes. The sauce should reduce and the pasta will soften absorbing all the flavor.

Step Four Finish and Combine:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any resting juices. Stir well and simmer uncovered for another two to three minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce coats everything. Taste and season with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step Five Garnish and Serve:

Spoon the pasta onto plates and top with chopped parsley more smoked paprika if you like or a handful of shredded cheese for meltiness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper is perfect for spice lovers.

Honey BBQ sauce has always been my guilty pleasure in the pantry. The way it hugs the penne in this recipe feels like my childhood love for barbecue dinners but in pasta form. Last summer we made it for friends on the patio and everyone raved about the sticky sweet sauce with those smoky notes.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. If you plan ahead this pasta holds up well for lunch the next day and often tastes richer as the flavors absorb.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap penne with any short tubular pasta like rigatoni or rotini. Try turkey chicken sausage or even cubed tofu for a different protein. Any good quality BBQ sauce can be used just make sure it has that balance of sweet and smoky notes. Dairy free cheese melts creamy as a topping if you want to keep it lactose free.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or simple steamed broccoli to lighten things up. Cornbread or garlic toast on the side turns it into an indulgent meal. Sometimes I like to top with extra parsley and serve family style for a casual gathering.

Cultural Context

This dish borrows the classic American barbecue flavors and weaves them into a pasta night. It is a playful mashup and feels especially comforting in cooler months when you crave those sticky savory notes but want the joy of pasta night.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add fresh summer corn cut off the cob for sweetness Stir in roasted bell peppers or zucchini for more veggies Use a chipotle BBQ sauce for added smoky heat

Success Stories

One reader told me her picky teens went back for seconds which never happens with new recipes in her house. I have tossed in leftover grilled chicken and it worked beautifully no dried out meat in sight.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the finished dish cool then transfer to a freezer safe dish in serving portions. Thaw overnight and reheat covered in the oven or on the stovetop with a few spoonfuls of broth stirred in to restore sauce texture.

This is a weeknight dinner sure to satisfy everyone at the table with minimal fuss. Make it once and you will be reaching for this skillet recipe again and again.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Just cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

No, the penne cooks right in the skillet with the sauce and chicken, making this a true one-pan dish.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for extra heat.

→ Are there cheese options for topping?

Shredded cheddar or mozzarella are delicious. Sprinkle on while hot for a melty finish.

→ Is soy sauce necessary for the flavor?

Soy sauce is optional but adds umami. Omit if preferred, or use low-sodium for a lighter taste.