One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Name: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon onion powder; salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

By:

Marry

Published:

June 28, 2026

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One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that seamlessly blends savory flavors with creamy richness, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a tangy barbecue sauce, kissed with honey’s sweetness, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. In just 20 minutes, you can have dinner ready on the table, making this recipe a must-have for busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly.

What makes this dish even better is its simplicity—it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. If you’ve ever craved the comforting taste of barbecue chicken but weren’t ready to fire up the grill, this recipe is a perfect alternative. With its enticing aroma and satisfying textures, One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is sure to become a standout favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Irresistible Flavor: The balance of tangy BBQ and sweet honey makes for a deliciously unique sauce.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors from the cheese and parsley make it a visually pleasing dish.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a hearty dinner or a cozy lunch with leftovers that taste just as good!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or lighter chicken options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups penne pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the sauce, creating a delightful bite. You can substitute with a different pasta shape if needed.
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: Using cooked chicken makes this dish quicker. Leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully for extra flavor and ease.
2 cups chicken broth: This is the base that infuses the pasta with rich flavor. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
1 cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s smoky, sweet, or spicy. For a twist, try homemade sauce!
2 tablespoons honey: Adding honey balances the tanginess of the BBQ sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor. Maple syrup can work as an alternative.
1 cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or coconut cream.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for creaminess and flavor. Feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar or a cheese blend.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and chicken for added flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides a fantastic aromatic base. Adjust to your taste for a more pronounced flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle depth and smoky flavor to the dish. You can use smoked paprika for a stronger taste.
½ teaspoon onion powder: This enhances overall flavor; it can easily be omitted if needed.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season to enhance flavors.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Sauté the Garlic: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it gently sizzle, filling your kitchen with its warm aroma.
Cook the Chicken: Stir in 2 cups of diced cooked chicken breast. If you’re using leftover chicken, this is its chance to soak up those delicious flavors. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper, coating the chicken evenly.
Combine the Sauces: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, and 2 tablespoons of honey. As you mix, enjoy the sweet and smoky scent wafting from the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the Penne: Now, toss in the 2 cups of penne pasta directly into the pan. Stir well so every piece of pasta is coated and submerged in the liquid. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce—about 10 minutes.
Make it Creamy: Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir slowly, watching the mixture turn silky and rich. Then, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for that fresh touch. Serve warm, straight from the pan, and enjoy the irresistible aroma that fills your space.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, allow your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the texture and flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Common mistakes include not simmering the sauce long enough—this helps develop deeper flavors, so let it bubble away.
Using cold chicken can cool down your dish; warm it up slightly before adding to the skillet.
Timing is key! Stir your pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
If you like it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or pepper flakes as you simmer the sauce.
For make-ahead ease, cook the pasta and chicken beforehand, then combine them when you’re ready to serve.

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne not only highlights the beauty of simplicity but also encourages creativity within your kitchen. The creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors work harmoniously, promising a scrumptious meal that warms both your belly and heart. Feel free to experiment with different proteins or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish and let it gather friends and family around your table.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce beautifully, any pasta shape like rotini, fusilli, or even bowties would work just as well. Just adjust cooking times depending on the pasta used.

What can I substitute for the chicken?

If you’re looking for something different, shredded pork, even tofu for a vegetarian twist, can be delicious alternatives. Just ensure your meat or protein pairs well with the BBQ flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Certainly! You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. For a non-dairy option, use coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt to keep it creamy while lowering the calorie count.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is great for meal prep! You can cook everything ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to enjoy. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits, so a splash of broth can revive it.