One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Tender chicken, sauteed vegetables, and penne pasta all cooked in one pan and coated with a tangy-sweet honey BBQ sauce. Finished with melted cheese and fresh herbs, this dish is comfort food made easy and full of flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
250 g (2 cups) penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 small onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Saute until golden and fully cooked, 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Saute Vegetables
In the same skillet, cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Cook the Pasta
Add penne and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 8–10 minutes until pasta is nearly al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add Sauce & Chicken
Stir in BBQ sauce and honey.
Return cooked chicken to the pan and mix well so everything is coated in the sauce.
Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pan.
Cover 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Serve hot.
Tips
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or tofu.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sodium: 550 mg