Smoky BBQ Chicken Pasta

Few flavor combinations ignite taste buds quite like the smoky, tangy embrace of barbecue, and fewer still offer the comforting satisfaction of a hearty pasta dish. What if you could blend these two culinary delights into one incredibly simple, quick, and utterly delicious meal? Enter BBQ Chicken Pasta – a dish designed to become your new weeknight hero.

My husband’s devotion to barbecue sauce borders on legendary. From pizzas piled high with grilled chicken and a generous drizzle of sauce to vibrant salads bursting with romaine, black beans, and corn, all touched by that distinct smoky sweetness, his palate consistently craves those unmistakable BBQ notes. He even has a soft spot for barbecue ranch burgers with crispy bacon and robust barbecue beef sandwiches. (Just for fun, I once tried to imagine his favorite ice cream flavor – BBQ tracks! Just checking if you’re paying attention.)

Given this profound affection for all things barbecue, and after the resounding success of my homemade barbecue sauce, the idea sparked: why not bring that beloved flavor profile to the ultimate comfort food – pasta? And so, the almighty BBQ Chicken Pasta invention was born. This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a testament to convenience and flavor, proving that incredibly satisfying meals don’t need a mountain of dishes or hours in the kitchen. In fact, this is a triumphant one-skillet meal – and if you know me, you know my adoration for skillet meals runs deep! This dish was an immediate sensation with my family, earning rave reviews and securing a permanent spot in our rotation.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta

This BBQ Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that hits all the right notes for a delicious and hassle-free dinner. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Simple and Quick: Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, this dish comes together in under an hour, from start to finish. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to more quality time.
• One-Skillet Wonder: The magic happens all in one pan! This not only minimizes cleanup but also allows all the delicious flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer, more cohesive dish. Fewer dishes mean a happier cook!
• Packed with Flavor: Each bite is an explosion of taste. You’ll savor the tender, perfectly cooked chicken, al dente pasta, the rich and tangy notes of barbecue sauce, and the creamy, melted cheeses. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even the pickiest eaters will find it hard to resist the appealing blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
• Incredibly Versatile: While perfect as is, this BBQ Chicken Pasta is wonderfully adaptable. Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, different cheeses, or even a protein swap to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

I am confident that if you ask my husband what his favorite pasta dish is, he’ll enthusiastically point to this delightful BBQ Chicken Pasta, keeping his barbecue theme alive and well. It’s a dish that truly delivers on flavor, ease, and family satisfaction.

Essential Ingredients for Your BBQ Chicken Pasta

Creating this irresistible dish requires a handful of common ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. The quality of your ingredients, especially the barbecue sauce, can make a significant difference in the final taste.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For sautéing and building a flavorful base.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into bite-sized chunks for quick and even cooking. You could also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Red Onion: Diced and sautéed until tender, adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the dish.
• Water & Chicken Broth: The liquid base for cooking the pasta, infusing it with flavor from the start.
• Salt: A fundamental seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
• Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is excellent for catching and holding the creamy sauce. Other sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, or cavatappi would also work well.
• Barbecue Sauce: The star of the show! Use your favorite brand or, for an exceptional homemade touch, try my best homemade version. A good quality sauce is crucial here.
• Sour Cream: Adds a wonderful tang and contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the BBQ.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that irresistible, gooey melt.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a robust, savory flavor that complements the barbecue sauce beautifully.

A Look Back:

One Year Ago: Skillet Chicken with Broccoli, Pasta, and Parmesan
Two Years Ago: Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

BBQ Chicken Pasta

Yield: 6 Servings

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

4.75 stars (8 ratings)

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size chunks
• 1 medium red onion, diced
• 2 cups water
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• ⅔ cup barbecue sauce (see note)
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. In a large 12-inch nonstick skillet (or a spacious pot if you don’t have a skillet this big), heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the chicken and onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, and the onions are softened. Remove the chicken and onions to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the water, chicken broth, penne, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the liquid is almost absorbed and the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Stir in the barbecue sauce and sour cream until well combined. Once mixed, add in the reserved chicken, onions, and shredded cheese. Stir gently to combine and cook until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Serve immediately! Garnish each serving with additional chopped red or green onions and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese for freshness and flavor.

Notes

BBQ Sauce: Here is my favorite homemade version, which adds an incredible depth of flavor. If using store-bought, choose a brand you love.
Updated Recipe: I’ve updated this recipe (on 7/2012) to reflect changes I’ve made over the years, primarily to reduce the amount of liquid used for cooking the pasta, ensuring a perfectly saucy consistency. If you have made this in the past and loved it as is, the original liquid ratio was 5 1/2 cups liquid (3 cups water, 2 1/2 cups chicken broth) to 12 ounces pasta.

Author: Mel

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Method: Stovetop

Serving: 1 Serving, Calories: 518kcal, Carbohydrates: 58g, Protein: 37g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 96mg, Sodium: 1145mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 13g

Recommended Products

12-Inch Nonstick Skillet

Measuring Cups

8-Inch Chef’s Knife

Tips for Making the Best BBQ Chicken Pasta

While this recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can elevate your BBQ Chicken Pasta from good to absolutely fantastic:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the chicken and onions, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. This allows for proper browning and caramelization, which adds a crucial layer of flavor.
• Choose a High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The barbecue sauce is the backbone of this dish. Whether you opt for a homemade variety or your favorite store-bought brand, ensure it’s a sauce you genuinely enjoy. Its flavor will define the entire meal.
• Cook Pasta to Al Dente: No one likes mushy pasta! Keep an eye on the cooking time and taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time. It should be tender but still have a slight bite. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese is Best: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Freshly shredded mozzarella and cheddar will give you the creamiest, most satisfying melt.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your food as you go! Before adding the cheese, taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. You might find you need a little more tang or sweetness depending on your BBQ sauce choice.
• Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the onions or a dash of your favorite hot sauce when you stir in the BBQ sauce.

Variations and Customizations

This BBQ Chicken Pasta is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken strips or a can of drained and rinsed black beans. You could also add roasted bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
• Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, try shredded cooked pork (like leftover pulled pork!), turkey, or even lean ground beef. Simply brown the ground beef with the onions and proceed with the recipe.
• Boost the Veggies: Stir in frozen corn, peas, or sautéed bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) along with the onions to sneak in more nutrients and color.
• Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, smoked Gouda, or a spicy pepper jack would all be excellent choices to complement the BBQ flavor.
• Herbaceous Touch: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley at the very end can add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
• Smoky Flavor Boost: A dash of liquid smoke (just a tiny amount!) can enhance the barbecue essence if you feel it needs more depth.

Storage and Reheating

This BBQ Chicken Pasta makes fantastic leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

• Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, chicken broth, or even water to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture, as pasta tends to absorb liquid as it sits. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a tiny bit of liquid and stirring halfway through.

This BBQ Chicken Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – a symphony of smoky, sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors all coming together in one satisfying bowl. It’s the perfect answer to those busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary without the fuss. Give it a try, and I bet it’ll quickly become one of your family’s most requested dishes. Enjoy!

Recipe Source: Mel’s Kitchen Cafe Original