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One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Sweet honey BBQ chicken, tender penne, and melted cheese cooked in one pan for an easy family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken & Pasta

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp 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 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp 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.

Notes

  • Adjust honey for more or less sweetness
  • Use smoked BBQ sauce for deeper flavor
  • Best enjoyed fresh but reheats beautifully
  • Great base recipe for customizing with veggies or spices