One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

Name: One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 8 oz uncooked penne pasta; 1 cup honey BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Author: Lora

Published: September 23, 2025

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Introduction to One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

As a busy mom, I totally get the struggle of whipping up something delicious after a long day. That’s where my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken comes in! This dish is not only a quick solution for your family dinner but also a way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Imagine tender chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, served with delightful penne pasta, all made in a single pan. It’s simple, flavorful, and packed with love—all the ingredients an exhausted cook needs to win the dinner battle!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken is the answer to your dinner prayers! It’s quick, with minimal prep and cleanup—perfect for those hectic weeknights. Plus, the combination of savory chicken and zesty BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that even picky eaters will love. Your family will be begging for seconds, and you’ll cherish the time saved in the kitchen!

Ingredients for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

Gathering ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For my One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken, here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for thighs if you want a juicier texture; breasts work wonderfully too, providing a lean option.
Uncooked penne pasta: Those little tubes hold sauce beautifully, making each bite a savory experience.
Honey BBQ sauce: The star of the show! It adds that sweet and tangy flair everyone loves.
Olive oil: A staple for sautéing that gives the chicken a lovely golden sear.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Helps to deglaze the pan and infuse flavor without being overly salty.
Soy sauce: Optional, but a splash can enhance the umami richness. Just use gluten-free if needed.
Smoked paprika: This adds a warm, smoky depth to the dish that will have you dreaming of summer BBQs.
Garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love a hint of garlic in their meals? It brings a comforting aroma too!
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste for that perfect flavor.

Feel free to get creative! You can toss in some colorful bell peppers or vibrant broccoli for added nutrition. Adjust the BBQ sauce quantities based on your family’s preference, and if someone’s feeling spicy, throw in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick! For exact measurements, check out the bottom of the article—easy-peasy for printing!

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into creating this delightful dish. I promise it’s easier than fighting over who gets the last cookie! Let’s get started.

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

First, grab a large non-stick skillet and place it on your stove over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. This is the perfect stage to get that beautiful sear on the chicken!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot, add your chicken pieces. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder over the top. I love the crackling sound when they hit the pan. Sear the chicken for about 5–7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Remove it from the pan and set it aside. Trust me; you want that golden glaze!

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Now, let’s not waste those delicious brown bits left in the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape them up. This process is called deglazing, and it’s essential for extracting all those flavors. It adds depth to your sauce and makes everything just a bit more delicious!

Step 4: Combine BBQ Sauce

Next, stir in your honey BBQ sauce and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the soy sauce. Let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. This step is like a warm hug for your taste buds, with all those flavors mingling together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Time to throw in the uncooked penne! Pour it right into the skillet and add enough water to barely cover the pasta—around 1 to 1½ cups should do the trick. Cover it with a lid and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, as no one likes mushy pasta!

Step 6: Return Chicken to Skillet

After the pasta has cooked to tender perfection, it’s time to bring back your seasoned chicken. Stir it into the skillet, and let them mingle for another 2–3 minutes. This isotonic infusion allows those flavors to marry beautifully. Each bite will be bursting with mouthwatering goodness!

Step 7: Taste and Garnish

Finally, don’t forget the most important step—tasting! Check if it needs a little more seasoning. If all is well, consider garnishing your dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or some grated cheese if you like. Serve it hot, and watch your family dig in with delight!

Tips for Success

Prep everything before you start cooking—this makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; this helps achieve that gorgeous golden color.
Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent it from sticking together.
Feel free to tweak the spices; you’re the chef, after all!
Let leftovers cool before storing them for quick meals later in the week.

Equipment Needed

Large non-stick skillet: Essential for cooking everything in one pan. A regular skillet works too, but you may need to watch for sticking.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and deglazing. A spatula can work in a pinch.
Lid: Vital for covering the pasta as it cooks. A baking sheet can substitute if needed.

Variations of One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

Vegetable Boost: Add a variety of colorful veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne and make sure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free for a safe meal.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a zesty twist that will have your taste buds dancing!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a burst of freshness to your dish. Just toss them in right before serving.
Meat Alternatives: Try swapping chicken for turkey or even plant-based chicken for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp garden salad to add a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread pair makes for the perfect sidekick.
Fruity Drinks: Consider lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing beverage complement.
Attractive Plating: Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for an appealing presentation.

FAQs about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne pasta pairs perfectly with the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken, you can substitute it with fusilli, rotini, or any pasta you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!

How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do!), let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will happily sit in your fridge for up to 3 days, ready for a quick meal!

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken after cooking! Just keep it in a freezer-safe container, and it will be good for about 2–3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The sweet and tangy flavor of the honey BBQ sauce usually wins kids over. Just adjust the spice level to suit your kiddos’ palate—skip the cayenne pepper if they’re sensitive to heat!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cooking can often feel like a daunting task, especially on those whirlwind weeknights. My One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken transforms that stress into joy. It delivers warmth, simplicity, and a mouthwatering experience all in one pan. Watching my family savor each bite reminds me why I love cooking. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating memories and sharing a meal together. I hope this dish brings the same joy to your table, infusing your nights with laughter and delicious flavors. So grab that skillet, and let’s cook up something wonderful!