Dinner

One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne Recipe

ByElla Hart February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delicious and easy weeknight meal that combines tender chicken with smoky BBQ flavors and perfectly cooked pasta. With just one skillet, it’s a quick, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

The dish shows a close-up of penne pasta mixed with pieces of cooked chicken in a thick orange-red sauce. The pasta is smooth and tubular with ridges, evenly coated by the sauce that has small chunks of tomato and herbs scattered throughout. Small green leaves and black pepper specks add contrast to the warm colors. The texture looks rich and slightly glossy, making the sauce appear thick and flavorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
1 ½ cups water or chicken broth
¾ cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky variety)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional: chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the pan to deglaze.
Step 4: Stir in uncooked penne pasta. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Reduce heat and stir in BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
Step 6: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 7: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Step 8: Serve hot directly from the skillet and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken broth instead of water for deeper flavor in the pasta.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Swap penne for rigatoni or ziti if you prefer a different pasta shape.
Include sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra veggies and color.
For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese after adding the BBQ sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry.