Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Why make this recipe

Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of BBQ sauce and honey with pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce paired with tender chicken and al dente penne creates a satisfying meal for the whole family. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to new flavors without overwhelming them.

How to make Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (about 3 cups) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the honey BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors.
7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and combined with the chicken.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat until the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.
9. Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne!

How to serve Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. The melted cheese on top adds a creamy texture, making it a comforting meal. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

How to store Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to make Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne

• Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to match your heat preference.
• You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer whole wheat penne, that works great too!
• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking.

Variation (if any)

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed vegetables. You can also use other types of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle, to change up the texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes, using store-bought BBQ sauce is perfectly fine and saves time!

Can this recipe be frozen?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread would complement this dish nicely!

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