why make this recipe

Sticky Sweet Honey Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of BBQ and the heartiness of pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet easy to prepare. It features juicy chicken coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce mixed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Plus, the addition of honey adds a unique touch that makes each bite burst with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love!

how to make Sticky Sweet Honey Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let them rest before slicing.
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over it. Stir to coat the chicken and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well with the sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

how to serve Sticky Sweet Honey Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish hot as a main course. It pairs nicely with a side salad or garlic bread. For a special touch, sprinkle extra parsley or cheese on top before serving.

how to store Sticky Sweet Honey Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or heat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Sticky Sweet Honey Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta

Make sure to slice the chicken after it rests; this keeps it juicy.
Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust seasoning if needed.
You can use any type of pasta you have on hand if you don’t have penne; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

variation

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the dish for added flavor and nutrition. You can also use grilled chicken or leftovers from a rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.

2. What type of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
You can use any BBQ sauce you enjoy, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or tangy. Choose one that matches your taste preferences!

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken and replace it with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. You can still follow the same sauce and pasta preparation method.