One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With tender chicken thighs coated in a smoky honey BBQ sauce and mixed with creamy penne pasta, this dish offers comfort and flavor in every bite. It’s an easy one-pan meal that simplifies cooking and cleanup while delivering a delightful taste experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of honey BBQ sauce and cream creates a rich, satisfying flavor that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Leftover Friendly: This recipe tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Provides ample space for searing the chicken and cooking the pasta without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the perfect balance of flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet, helping to mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

How to Make One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, add sliced red onion. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Sauces and Pasta

Pour in chicken broth and honey BBQ sauce. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Add penne pasta to the skillet, stir to coat in the sauce, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, add corn, heavy cream, and the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

How to Serve One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is easy and versatile. You can enhance the experience with a few simple accompaniments that complement its flavors beautifully.

With Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich penne.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty meal that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Bright, steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious balance and vibrant color on the plate.

With Coleslaw

• A creamy coleslaw offers crunch and coolness, making it an excellent side for this dish.

With Cornbread

• Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the smoky honey BBQ flavor, adding a delightful sweetness.

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How to Perfect One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

For an even more delightful experience, consider these tips while preparing your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

• Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They add more flavor and moisture compared to boneless thighs.
• Adjust Sauce Levels: Feel free to add more honey BBQ sauce if you prefer a saucier dish.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Topping your penne with shredded cheese in the last few minutes of cooking can create a cheesy finish.
• Add Spices: Incorporate smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick of flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and enhances visual appeal when serving.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Pairing your One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds elegance and freshness to the meal.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the richness of the pasta nicely.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf provides a nutty flavor and wholesome texture to balance the dish.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with honey BBQ chicken.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast and palate cleanser between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken thighs properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne for too long can result in mushy pasta. Follow the package instructions for al dente pasta, and remember it will continue to cook slightly when combined with other ingredients.
• Not using enough liquid: If you don’t add enough chicken broth, the pasta may not cook evenly. Ensure you have enough liquid to cover the pasta adequately during cooking.
• Ignoring ingredient order: Adding ingredients out of order can disrupt the layering of flavors. Follow the instructions carefully for maximum taste.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Leftovers shouldn’t be neglected! Store any uneaten portion in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the dish fresh.

Freezing One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne.

What type of pasta works best for One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Penne pasta is ideal as its shape holds onto sauces well, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, they may require less cooking time than thighs.

How can I customize One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color. You can also adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have honey BBQ sauce?

You can make your own by combining regular BBQ sauce with honey or use another flavor of BBQ sauce that you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how quickly it comes together!