One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for Easy Dinners

February 9, 2026

One Pan Tangy Honey has become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights. When I first stumbled upon it, I was looking for a quick meal that would satisfy my family while also being simple to prepare. This dish features tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich honey BBQ sauce that melds beautifully in one skillet. The aroma of garlic and onions sautéing fills your kitchen, tantalizing your taste buds before you even take a bite. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Tangy Honey

Quick and easy preparation – ready in just 35 minutes!
Family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.
Budget-friendly ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile: try it with One Pan Sweet Honey or One Pan Zesty Honey variations.
Healthy protein from chicken and carbs from pasta for a balanced meal.

Ingredients for One Pan Tangy Honey

Here’s everything you need for this delicious dish:

1 lb chicken breast – cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing.
2 cloves garlic, minced – adds aromatic flavor.
1 small onion, diced – enhances sweetness.
8 oz penne pasta – the base of the dish.
3 cups chicken broth – for moisture and depth of flavor.
1/4 cup honey – the star of the dish that provides that tangy sweetness.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce – tangy and slightly smoky.
1 tsp smoked paprika – for a hint of warmth.
1/2 tsp salt – to taste.
1/4 tsp black pepper – adds spice.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for creaminess.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – for garnish and freshness.

Delicious One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with melted cheese and fresh parsley

How to Make One Pan Tangy Honey

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the penne pasta, chicken broth, honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan, stirring well to combine.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Tangy Honey

These tricks will guarantee success every time:

Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it continues to cook in the sauce.
Feel free to substitute with One Pan Honey Vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Close-up of One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne with rich sauce and tender chicken

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Tangy Honey?

The balance between honey and BBQ sauce is key. Adjust it to your taste for a sweeter or smokier dish. I prefer a little more honey for that extra tang! You can also use a One Pan Honey Glaze for a different flavor profile.

Can I make One Pan Tangy Honey ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Tangy Honey?

Make sure to keep an eye on the pasta cooking time. Overcooked pasta will become mushy. Additionally, always taste as you go to adjust flavors!

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Tangy Honey

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. Consider pairing it with One Pan Honey Salmon for a delightful dinner combination that balances flavors beautifully.

Nutrition Facts for One Pan Tangy Honey

Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 540
Protein: 37g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Tangy Honey

Allow the dish to cool before placing it in airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Tangy Honey

Can I freeze One Pan Tangy Honey?

Absolutely! Freeze it in portions for future meals. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

What can I substitute for chicken in One Pan Tangy Honey?

Try using tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or swap in shrimp for a seafood twist!

Variations of One Pan Tangy Honey You Can Try

Get creative with your One Pan Tangy Honey by trying these variations: use different pasta shapes, add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or create a One Pan Honey Marinade for grilled chicken before adding it to the dish.