If you’re looking for a meal that’s as simple as it is delicious, my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is your new go-to! This dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a sweet yet tangy honey BBQ sauce that brings everything together in one pan—yes, just one! I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, you won’t believe how much flavor you can pack into just 30 minutes of cooking! Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients List
For this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you’ll need:
2 cups penne pasta: This pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully.
1 pound chicken breast, diced: Tender chicken adds protein and heartiness.
1 cup honey BBQ sauce: The star of the dish, bringing that sweet and tangy flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for a savory kick!
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
2 cups broccoli florets: Adds color, nutrition, and crunch.
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional): For a melty, cheesy finish!
How to Prepare One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Now, let’s dive into making this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! It’s as easy as pie, and you’ll love how everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time and cleanup. First, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. The aroma at this stage is just heavenly!
Next, add the penne pasta and pour in the honey BBQ sauce. Give it a good stir to coat everything. Then, add the broccoli florets and enough water to cover the pasta—about 2-3 cups should do it. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened. If you’re opting for cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the pan until melted, about 2 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Add diced chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned.
Stir in penne pasta and honey BBQ sauce, mixing to combine.
Add broccoli florets and enough water to cover the pasta (about 2-3 cups).
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover until melted (about 2 minutes).
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
Deliciously tangy and sweet flavor that everyone will love.
Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli.
Flexible recipe—customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Tips for Success
To make your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne truly shine, here are my top tips! First off, don’t rush the browning of the chicken—this enhances the flavor and adds a lovely texture. Also, if you prefer a bit of a kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the honey BBQ sauce for an extra zing! When it comes to the pasta, feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free penne if that’s your jam. Lastly, remember to stir occasionally while it simmers; this prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Swap out the chicken for diced tofu or shrimp for a different protein twist. You can even throw in veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added color and nutrition. Feeling festive? Try adding some corn or black beans for a southwestern flair. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just scoop out the portion you want and reheat in a skillet over medium heat. You can also pop it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overcook it—nobody likes dry pasta! Enjoy those tasty leftovers!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is approximately 450 calories, with 10g of fat, 30g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. It also contains around 12g of sugar and 600mg of sodium. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like rotini or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Simply substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Definitely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just reheat it gently before serving.
What can I use instead of chicken? If you want a vegetarian option, diced tofu works great! You could also try using cooked sausage or shrimp for a different flavor profile.
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