Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
Looking for the ultimate weeknight dinner? This one-pan tangy honey BBQ chicken penne is saucy, cheesy, and bursting with smoky-sweet flavors that the whole family will love. Best part? Only one pan to clean up after dinner!
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (tangy style, your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half & half for lighter version)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces, then season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until golden brown on the outside, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Tip: Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes so it cooks evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Build the Base
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and toss in minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it). Add in the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir well so the pasta is fully coated in the tangy-sweet liquid.
Step 3: Simmer the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Note: If the pasta soaks up liquid too quickly, just add an extra splash of broth or water.
Step 4: Creamy & Cheesy Goodness
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the pan. Mix everything until creamy and smooth. Sprinkle in mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then stir until melted and gooey.
This is where the magic happens — creamy, smoky, sweet, and cheesy all in one bite!
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top the finished dish with green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot straight from the pan and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack for a spicy twist, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully — store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This honey BBQ chicken pasta is the best mix of comfort food and bold flavor. Unlike typical marinara-based pastas, the tangy BBQ sauce with a drizzle of honey adds smoky sweetness, while the creamy cheese balances everything out. It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
Plus, it’s one pan only — no juggling saucepans, pasta pots, and colanders. Just toss everything together and dinner is ready in under 40 minutes.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 510 | 32g | 45g | 22g | 3g | 14g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is your new go-to for weeknight dinners. It’s:
- Fast (ready in 35 minutes)
- Easy (just one pan!)
- Flavor-packed (sweet, tangy, smoky, cheesy)