One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with creamy cheese in a one-skillet meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe offers convenience without sacrificing taste. The blend of textures and flavors makes this dish a family favorite, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

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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 Pasta Dish
• How to Make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Step 1: Heat the Skillet
• Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
• Step 3: Combine Liquids and Pasta
• Step 4: Cook Until Tender
• Step 5: Stir in Cheeses
• Step 6: Serve Your Dish
• How to Serve One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Family Style
• Individual Bowls
• With Garlic Bread
• Topped with Green Onions
• With a Side Salad
• For Meal Prep
• How to Perfect One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Reheating One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use leftover chicken?
• What types of pasta work best?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• How do I customize my One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-skillet meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful Blend: The combination of barbecue sauce and creamy cheeses creates a deliciously rich flavor that will please everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta by adding vegetables or proteins of your choice for extra nutrition.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one skillet means less time spent cleaning up after dinner.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand will make preparing your One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for cooking everything evenly in one pot, making this dish hassle-free.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accuracy when adding liquids to achieve the right consistency in your pasta dish.

Ingredients

To make this delicious One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Dish

• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, optional, for garnish

How to Make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 3: Combine Liquids and Pasta

Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and barbecue sauce. Stir in the uncooked pasta until well combined.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cheeses

Add shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your flavorful One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta!

Feel free to enjoy leftovers stored in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer preservation.

How to Serve One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your family’s preferences or the occasion.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a casual family meal. This makes for easy serving and encourages everyone to dig in together.

Individual Bowls

• Dish out portions into individual bowls, allowing guests to add their favorite toppings like extra cheese or chopped parsley.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread for a satisfying side that complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

Topped with Green Onions

• Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch and added flavor contrast.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light garden salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

For Meal Prep

• Portion leftovers into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

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How to Perfect One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

To make your One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Cooked Chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time. Rotisserie chicken works great and adds flavor.

• Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Opt for rotini or penne as they hold sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding cheese.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and color.

• Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

Pairing side dishes can enhance your dining experience with One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs well with cheesy pasta; toast slices with butter and garlic until golden brown.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a refreshing contrast.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the pasta.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the main dish.

5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob can be a fun, sweet addition alongside your main course.

6. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus spears offer an elegant touch that enhances any meal.

7. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide an additional layer of comfort food that pairs beautifully with barbecue flavors.

8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the chicken with spices first can lead to bland flavors. Always sauté your chicken with garlic powder before adding other ingredients for depth.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta separately or for too long, it can turn mushy. Remember, it should cook in the sauce for perfect texture.
• Using low-quality barbecue sauce: The flavor of your dish largely depends on the sauce. Choose a good-quality barbecue sauce for a richer taste.
• Neglecting to taste as you go: Failing to season throughout the cooking process can result in a flat flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning at each stage.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or other toppings can make your dish look less appealing. A simple garnish adds color and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm. This method keeps it creamy.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken saves time and adds extra flavor to your dish.

What types of pasta work best?

Rotini or penne are ideal because their shapes hold sauce well, but feel free to experiment with other types!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap out cheeses based on your preference for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Cheese Pasta is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!