There’s something magical about the aroma of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? The sweet and savory scent dances in the air, promising a delightful burst of flavor that can make even the most mundane day feel like a special occasion. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a tangy honey BBQ sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating a dish that is not just food but an experience.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those nights when takeout seemed tempting, but my inner chef was determined to put on a show. Friends gathered around the table, forks ready, and as soon as they took their first bite, I knew I had struck culinary gold. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings; it brings people together with its comforting flavors and vibrant colors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup
- The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes every bite exciting
- Its colorful presentation adds visual appeal to any meal
- Versatile enough for family dinners or potlucks, it’s sure to impress everyone!
I still chuckle at my friend’s face when he took his first bite—eyes wide, mouth full, and he exclaimed, “Why haven’t you made this before?”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for a richer flavor; it’ll add depth to your chicken.
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Penne Pasta: Perfect for capturing all that tangy honey BBQ sauce in every bite.
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Honey BBQ Sauce: Store-bought or homemade—just ensure it’s finger-licking good!
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic brings everything to life.
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Onion: Sweet onions work wonders in adding sweetness and depth to the dish.
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Bell Peppers: Any color will do; they add crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; don’t skip these little guys!
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for that creamy finish sprinkled on top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preparation Stage: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. It’s like setting up for a cooking concert—everything should be within reach!
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
Add Aromatics: Once chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F), remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
Mix in Bell Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers next. Cook them until they get soft—a beautiful rainbow of colors swirls around your kitchen!
Pasta Time!: Stir in uncooked penne pasta along with water (enough to cover). Cover with a lid and let simmer until pasta is al dente—about 10 minutes.
Add Sauce & Cheese: Pour in your honey BBQ sauce over the pasta mixture. Stir well until everything is coated in that sticky goodness. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.
Enjoying Your Creation: Serve hot straight from the pan; don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs if you have any lying around! Your guests will be drooling over this stunning dish.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne proves that simplicity can lead to extraordinary meals that create lasting memories!
You Must Know
- One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a game-changer for busy nights
- The sweet and tangy flavors blend beautifully, and the one-pan method means less clean-up
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner without the hassle
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then cook the penne while preparing the tangy sauce. This sequence ensures everything melds perfectly together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Experimenting makes the dish uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a smoky flavor, add a bit of smoked paprika to the sauce before mixing with pasta
- Ensure pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness when reheating
- Always taste as you go; adjustments can elevate flavors significantly!
Sometimes I think back to that dinner party where I served this dish; everyone was raving about it! It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding.
FAQ
Can I make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, prep it ahead and simply reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for penne pasta?
Fusilli or rigatoni work well in this recipe too!
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet honey BBQ flavor is usually a hit with kids.
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, penne pasta, and a sweet-savory honey BBQ sauce—all in one pan for easy cleanup. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering a burst of flavor that will impress family and friends alike. The vibrant colors and comforting taste make it not just a meal but an experience worth savoring.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Remove from the pan.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Add uncooked penne pasta and enough water to cover it. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Pour honey BBQ sauce over the mixture and stir well to combine. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
