Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual get-togethers. The combination of BBQ sauce and garlic butter creates an unforgettable flavor that your loved ones will adore. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting fusion of American and Italian cuisine, making it an instant favorite on your dinner table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Fresh Bread
• Salad Accompaniment
• On a Buffet Table
• Leftover Makeover
• How to Perfect Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Best Side Dishes for Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Reheating Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What can I serve with Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?
• Can I customize the BBQ sauce?
• Is Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne suitable for meal prep?
• How spicy is this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of sticky garlic butter and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and garlic, ensuring even cooking and flavor infusion.
• Pot: Essential for boiling pasta; use one large enough to accommodate the penne comfortably.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like chicken and garlic.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes dicing chicken quick and safe, reducing prep time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot.
Add the penne pasta once the water is boiling.
Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in diced chicken along with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the BBQ sauce and chicken broth into the skillet.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
Mix in the cooked penne pasta until thoroughly coated with sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish your Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve warm, sharing this delightful dish with friends or family. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Serving Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and making it a memorable meal. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

Individual Plates

• Plate the Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne in individual bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan. This adds a touch of elegance.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair the dish with slices of crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Salad Accompaniment

• Offer a side salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of greens balances the richness of the pasta.

On a Buffet Table

• If hosting a party, include this dish as part of a buffet spread. It’s easy to serve and complements various other dishes.

Leftover Makeover

• Transform leftovers into a casserole by adding cheese and baking until bubbly. This offers a fun twist for another meal.

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How to Perfect Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

To achieve the best version of your Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality BBQ sauce significantly enhance flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the penne is cooked just right—firm but tender—to avoid mushiness.
• Sauté Garlic Carefully: Cook minced garlic on medium heat; overcooking can make it bitter.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add extra spices like cayenne or herbs for more depth.
• Garnish Generously: Adding parsley and Parmesan not only boosts flavor but also adds visual appeal.
• Serve Immediately: The dish tastes best when served hot, ensuring that all flavors are at their peak.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

Pairing side dishes with your Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crispness and creaminess that complements the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture, making it a great side choice.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter can be a hearty addition to your meal.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this flavorful pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Ensure you cook the penne pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well with the sauce.
• Neglecting Garlic Timing: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not burnt. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor, ruining the dish.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken properly. Salt and pepper are essential to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Incorrect Sauce Balance: Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce according to your taste. Too much can overpower the other flavors, while too little can leave it bland.
• Not Garnishing: Always add fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving. They add freshness and enhance visual appeal, making the dish more inviting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne.

What can I serve with Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne?

You can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I customize the BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauces or even make your own for unique flavor profiles.

Is Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level largely depends on the BBQ sauce you choose. For milder flavors, opt for a sweet barbecue sauce.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or changing up seasonings. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors that come together effortlessly!