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

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne delivers an amazing flavor explosion in an easy-to-make dish. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and hearty penne pasta, all cooked in a single pan. The taste of honey enhances the savory profile, creating a harmony of sweet and tangy flavors that will please even the pickiest eater. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this one-pan meal will leave everyone satisfied.
Cooking in one pan not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a remarkable experience. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about making this incredible dish, from preparation techniques to serving suggestions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this ultimate culinary delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne brings together a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. Here are several reasons why you will fall in love with this recipe:
1. Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just one pan, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
2. Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in a single dish, washing up becomes a breeze. No more endless pile of pots and pans!
3. Flavor Explosion: The tangy honey BBQ sauce complements the chicken perfectly, creating a uniquely flavorful experience.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe fits any mealtime.
5. Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory sauce is appealing to kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.
6. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste. Add vegetables or switch up the pasta type for additional variety.
With these compelling attributes, you can see why One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a beloved dish for many households!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is relatively quick and efficient. Here’s the estimated time to prepare and cook this savory dish:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
These times are approximate and may vary depending on your cooking skills and kitchen equipment. However, this framework should give you a solid estimate for your meal planning.

Ingredients

– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably tangy style)
– ½ cup honey
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is straightforward if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and dice the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan. Season with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, pour in the BBQ sauce and honey. Stir well to combine.
5. Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in the penne pasta and chicken broth. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
6. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
8. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.
9. Serve: Plate the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne and enjoy your meal hot!
Following these simple steps will lead you to a delicious and satisfying dish that you can easily share with your loved ones, all prepared in just one pan.

How to Serve

To elevate the experience of your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, here are some serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates, and make sure to include some of the delicious sauce drizzled on top.
2. Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. You might also consider adding some sliced green onions for extra flavor.
3. Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the pasta.
4. Beverage Pairings: A light white wine or sparkling water will enhance the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory sauce.
5. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave for a quick meal later.
These serving tips will help you present your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne beautifully, making it a memorable dining experience for you and your guests!

Additional Tips

– Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and taste. Stick with fresh parsley for garnishing.
– Customize Your Pasta: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist on the classic penne.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with these delicious variations:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead. This keeps the flavor while catering to vegetarian diets.
2. Cheesy Delight: Double the cheese for a richer, creamier experience. Use a blend of mozzarella for extra stretch.
3. Spicy BBQ: Opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to elevate the heat level and add depth to the flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Special Equipment

For preparing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, consider having the following equipment on hand:
– Large skillet with a lid: Essential for even cooking and moisture retention.
– Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
– Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine the ingredients effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of Honey?

Yes, brown sugar will provide sweetness but will alter the flavor slightly. Honey adds a unique depth to the dish.

What Can I Use Instead of BBQ Sauce?

Feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or a homemade tomato sauce, for a personalized twist.

Is This Dish Gluten-Free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta alternative and ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.

How Can I Make it Dairy-Free?

Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep the recipe delicious for those avoiding dairy.

Can I Cook This in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Place all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is an easy and delicious meal that marries sweet and savory flavors in a quick dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this one-pan meal will surely impress. With its versatility, you can customize it to suit any dietary need or preference, making it a staple in your recipe book!

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