Honey BBQ Chicken Penne
This Honey BBQ Chicken Penne is a quick, flavorful weeknight winner combining sweet honey, smoky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta cooked al dente
- 1 lb chicken breast cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup honey provides natural sweetness
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce choose your favorite brand or homemade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder adds savory depth
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder enhances flavor complexity
- salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning
- 2 green onions thinly sliced, for garnish and fresh bite
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season cubed 1 lb chicken breast with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey and 1/2 cup BBQ sauce until smooth. Reduce skillet heat to medium-low, pour sauce over cooked chicken, and stir to coat. Let sauce thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes.
- Add cooked penne pasta to skillet with honey BBQ chicken. Toss gently to combine and coat pasta evenly with sauce.
- Transfer to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture prevents mushiness when mixed with sauce.
- If BBQ sauce is thick, thin with a splash of water or chicken broth before adding.
- Marinate chicken in honey BBQ sauce for 30 minutes prior to cooking for extra flavor.
- Green onions add color and mild onion flavor; substitute with parsley or cilantro if desired.