If you love easy chicken pasta dinners that deliver bold flavor with minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is about to become a favorite. Juicy chicken, tender penne pasta, and a sweet-and-tangy barbecue honey sauce come together in one skillet for a comforting, family-friendly meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying enough to impress.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth

For the Honey BBQ Sauce

1 cup barbecue sauce
½ cup honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Season the chicken
Toss chicken pieces with salt and pepper until evenly coated.
Brown the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Build the sauce
In the same skillet, stir together barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Cook the pasta
Add chicken broth and penne pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Combine everything
Return chicken to the skillet and stir until fully coated. Cook for 2–3 more minutes.
Add the cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover and let melt for about 2 minutes.
Garnish and serve
Finish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips

Cut chicken evenly to ensure quick, uniform cooking.
Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
Use a nonstick or deep skillet for best one-pan results.
Let the dish rest for 2 minutes before serving for a thicker sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

One pan means less cleanup
Sweet and tangy flavor balance
Beginner-friendly and quick
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep

Substitutions & Variations

Protein Options

Chicken thighs for extra juiciness
Rotisserie chicken (add at the end)

Pasta Swaps

Rotini or rigatoni
Gluten-free penne

Flavor Twists

Use smoky or spicy BBQ sauce
Add red pepper flakes for heat
Stir in sautéed bell peppers or onions

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead

Prep sauce and chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat on stovetop with a splash of broth.
Microwave gently, stirring halfway through.

Serving Ideas

Pair with a crisp green salad
Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls
Add a spoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top
Enjoy with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~600
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 62 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 3 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta like fusilli or shells works well.

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Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely—use gluten-free pasta and check your BBQ sauce label.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Simmer gently and stir occasionally; remove from heat as soon as pasta is tender.

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Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Broccoli, spinach, zucchini, or corn are great additions.

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Penne proves that comfort food can be quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it’s an ideal recipe for busy nights when you still want something hearty and homemade. One skillet, bold flavor, and happy plates—this dish checks every box.

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