One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that will transform your dinner routine. This recipe captures the perfect balance of savory chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and hearty penne pasta, all cooked in one pan for added convenience. It’s a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights, providing a flavorful meal that pleases both kids and adults. If you love the vibrant taste of honey BBQ combined with the satisfying texture of pasta, this is the recipe you won’t want to miss.
Imagine a creamy, tangy sauce coating tender pieces of chicken while penne pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors. It’s that beautiful union of textures and tastes that makes One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne incredible. You can whip it up in no time—making it an essential recipe for anyone looking to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home.
This culinary creation isn’t just about convenience; it also delivers on taste and nutrition. With protein from the chicken and carbs from the pasta, this dish is as wholesome as it is appealing. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds without the guilt!
Now, let’s discover what makes this recipe irresistible and how you can easily create it in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a versatile and satisfying dish that boasts several fantastic features:
1. Quick and Easy: Everything cooks in one pan, minimizing cleanup time without sacrificing flavor.
2. Flavorsome: The combination of tangy honey and BBQ results in a flavor explosion with every bite.
3. Nutritionally Balanced: This dish incorporates protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients for a well-rounded meal.
4. Family-Friendly: Children love the sweet tang of the sauce, making it a hit with picky eaters.
5. Customizable: Adjust the level of tanginess or spice to suit your family’s preferences; feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrition.
6. Perfect for Leftovers: The dish reheats nicely, making it excellent for lunch the next day.
All of these elements come together to guarantee that this meal becomes a regular in your weekly dinner rotation. You won’t just cook; you’ll create delight and joy around the dinner table!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is efficient and straightforward. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
These times may vary slightly depending on your cooking experience, but this should give you a great framework for planning your cooking schedule.

Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
– 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is simple. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:
1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine Sauces: In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce and honey together. Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in the penne pasta and chicken broth. Stir until well combined.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover and reduce to a simmer, cooking for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. Check the Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or honey as desired.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like, and serve warm.
These straightforward instructions will guide you in creating this amazing dish with ease. In no time, you’ll be enjoying a hearty meal that warms the soul!

How to Serve

To make the most of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, consider the following serving tips:
1. Family Style: Serve directly from the pan for a cozy, communal feel. This method encourages everyone to help themselves and fosters fun discussions around the table.
2. Add a Side: Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors and round out the meal.
3. Presentation: Use a large, colorful serving bowl to showcase the vibrant dish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley can elevate the visual appeal.
4. Temperature: This dish is best served warm, allowing the flavors to remain vibrant and the textures to shine.
5. Complementary Drinks: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a light red wine to enhance the overall dining experience.
By following these serving tips, you can create a wonderful dining moment, making your meal memorable for yourself and your guests. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and quality penne to enhance the overall flavors of your dish. Fresh ingredients lend a better taste and texture.
– Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
– Make It Spicy: If you prefer a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ mixture.
– Garnish Creatively: Leverage unique herbs or toppings like crumbled feta or shredded cheese to add depth to the dish.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne! Here are some ideas to personalize your meal:
1. Vegetable Medley: Toss in your favorite veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for an extra nutritional punch.
2. Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
3. Alternative Sauces: Swapping the BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce will give the dish an entirely different flavor profile while keeping it quick and easy.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner later in the week.
– Freezing: You can freeze the unserved portion. Package it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it in foil. It will last in the freezer for 2-3 months. When ready to eat, slowly thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Here’s a list of essential tools for making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne:
– Large skillet or deep frying pan for cooking the chicken and pasta.
– Mixing bowl for combining the BBQ sauce and honey.
– Cooking spoon for stirring all the ingredients.
– Measuring cups and spoons to ensure proper ingredient quantities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole grain penne instead of regular penne?

Absolutely! Whole grain penne adds more fiber and will work perfectly in this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the juices run clear.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients or split it into two pans.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can easily convert One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta and making sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it with garlic bread for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful and unique dish that perfectly combines savory and sweet flavors. Its quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re surprising your family or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With its versatility and satisfying flavors, it’s a recipe that can easily become a favorite in your kitchen.

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