HONEY BBQ CHICKEN PENNE – omarezepte24

I vividly remember the first time I attempted a one-pan meal – it was a weeknight, I was exhausted, and the thought of doing dishes made me want to cry. I stumbled upon a recipe online, something vaguely resembling what I now know as One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, and though it was a bit of a disaster (the pasta was mushy, the chicken dry!), it sparked an idea. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne you’ll ever make! It’s so good, you’ll be making it every week.

Why You’ll Absolutely LOVE This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Okay, friends, let’s talk about why this dish is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Forget complicated recipes with a million pots and pans – this is all about maximum flavor with minimum effort. We’re talking tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a tangy, sweet, smoky BBQ sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, the one-pan method means less cleanup. What’s not to love?

Seriously, this isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a flavor explosion that’s ridiculously easy to make. It’s the kind of meal that even the pickiest eaters will devour, and you’ll feel like a rockstar chef without spending hours in the kitchen. So, ditch the takeout menu and get ready to create some kitchen magic!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

So, what sets this One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne apart from the rest? It’s all about the balance of flavors and the simplicity of the cooking method. Here’s a breakdown:

• The Tangy Honey BBQ Sauce: This isn’t your average store-bought BBQ sauce. We’re creating a homemade version that’s sweet, tangy, smoky, and utterly irresistible. The honey adds a beautiful sweetness that complements the savory BBQ flavors perfectly.
• The One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pan, infusing the pasta with all the delicious flavors of the chicken and sauce. This means less cleanup and more flavor in every bite!
• The Perfectly Cooked Chicken: We’re using bite-sized pieces of chicken, which cook quickly and evenly, ensuring that every piece is tender and juicy.
• The Customizable Factor: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even swap out the chicken for sausage or shrimp.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this culinary masterpiece. Don’t be intimidated by the list – most of these are pantry staples!

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Alright, let’s get down to business! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in no time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right now!
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.
4. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Add the Pasta and Broth: Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
6. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
7. Check for Doneness: The pasta should be tender and the chicken should be cooked through. If there’s still too much liquid in the pan, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
8. Season to Taste: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to your liking.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or green onions (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Success Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Want to guarantee a perfect result every time? Here are my top tips for making this dish a total success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure you’re using a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate all the ingredients. Overcrowding the pan can prevent the pasta from cooking evenly.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring the pasta occasionally while it’s simmering will prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure that it cooks evenly.
• Adjust the Liquid as Needed: If the pasta is absorbing the liquid too quickly, add a little more chicken broth. If there’s too much liquid at the end, remove the lid and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality chicken broth and BBQ sauce ingredients will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Be sure to check the pasta for doneness after 15 minutes of simmering. It should be al dente, meaning it’s slightly firm to the bite.

Variations and Substitutions: Make It Your Own!

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so versatile! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, or corn for added flavor and nutrients. Add them to the skillet along with the pasta and chicken broth.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Use Different Protein: Swap out the chicken for sausage, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Try Different Pasta Shapes: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make It Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or Parmesan cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy twist.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

• Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad or a Caesar salad is the perfect complement to this hearty pasta dish.
• Add some garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any pasta meal.
• Pair with a glass of wine: A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, pairs well with the tangy BBQ flavors of this dish.

Other Delicious Chicken Pasta Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of chicken and pasta, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few other mouthwatering recipes that you’ll definitely want to try. If you’re looking for something creamy and comforting, you might enjoy Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor. Or, for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, check out Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Creamy Pasta, where tender chicken bites meet a luscious cream sauce. Looking for something with a little more tang? Then you have to try the Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta, which is another one-pan meal ready in 30 minutes. Don’t forget about Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne for a family favorite. And for those who love the ease of a slow cooker, Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is an absolute must, or maybe even the Shredded Chicken Crockpot BBQ. Each of these recipes offers a unique twist on the classic chicken and pasta combination, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storage: Store the leftover One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! However, keep in mind that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing. Here’s how to freeze it:

• Cool Completely: Allow the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion and Freeze: Divide the dish into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• Freeze for Up to 2-3 Months: Freeze for up to 2-3 months for the best quality.
• Thaw and Reheat: Thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal Awaits!

There you have it – everything you need to create the most amazing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne you’ve ever tasted! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, and I promise it will become a family favorite in no time. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Happy cooking, friends!

Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Amelia

This one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken Penne recipe is the perfect weeknight meal. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta are coated in a tangy, sweet, and smoky homemade BBQ sauce for a flavor explosion that’s easy to make and clean up.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 650 kcal

• Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Cutting board

• Knife

• Stirring spoon or spatula

• Lid for skillet or Dutch oven

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a little heat
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

• Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.

• Pour in the tomato sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.

• Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

• Check for doneness: The pasta should be tender and the chicken should be cooked through. If there’s still too much liquid in the pan, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to your liking.

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or green onions (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy!

For best results, use a high-quality chicken broth and don’t overcook the pasta. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.