One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. This dish brings together the rich flavors of smoky sausage and tender chicken, all enveloped in a tangy BBQ sauce, making it a hit at any table. Its one-skillet preparation means less cleanup, while its comforting taste appeals to everyone. Whether it’s dinner or a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Protein
• Pasta and Sauce
• Vegetables
• Extras
• How to Make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Step 1: Brown the Meats
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Final Touches
• How to Serve One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Casual Family Style
• Portion Control
• Garnish Elegantly
• Pair with Bread
• Add a Side Salad
• Include Extra BBQ Sauce
• How to Perfect One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Best Side Dishes for One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Reheating One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• How do I make this dish gluten-free?
• What sides go well with One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne?
• Can I add vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just one skillet needed, you can whip this up in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce, chicken, and sausage creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness mixed with pasta and meat.
• Comforting Meal: It’s perfect for cozy nights in or serving guests at casual gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne, having the right tools will make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools help in stirring the mixture without scratching your skillet‘s surface.

Ingredients

For the One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne, gather the following ingredients:

Protein

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, diced
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

Pasta and Sauce

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth

Vegetables

• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Extras

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken thighs and sliced sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce. Stir in the penne pasta. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer while stirring occasionally until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 12-15 minutes).

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Stir in the corn and shredded cheese until melted and combined. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne!

How to Serve One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne is not just a meal but an experience. Serving it correctly can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Casual Family Style

• Serve directly from the skillet for a cozy family meal. This makes for easy cleanup and keeps the dish warm longer.

Portion Control

• Use individual bowls for serving. This helps with portion control and allows guests to enjoy their own personal servings.

Garnish Elegantly

• Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pair with Bread

• Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce, enhancing the overall experience.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, adding a refreshing touch.

Include Extra BBQ Sauce

• Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who love a little more tang and sweetness in their dish.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

Perfecting this dish can make it even more delightful. Here are some tips to enhance your One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage and fresh chicken thighs for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicy, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to give your dish a kick.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure your penne is cooked al dente so it retains its bite and texture in the dish.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese blends like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors that complement the BBQ sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the skillet to rest for a few minutes before serving helps all flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

Pairing sides with your One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for sopping up sauce.
2. Green Salad: A light mix of greens dressed with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing bite, balancing out the heaviness of the penne.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with BBQ flavors and adds a seasonal touch, especially in summer.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and depth; try carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from the skillet.
7. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad complements the smokiness of the sausage while providing additional texture.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans are great alongside BBQ dishes, offering a sweet-and-savory balance that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken and sausage can lead to less flavor. Always take the time to brown your meats for a richer taste.

• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the penne for too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste test towards the end of cooking.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use salt and pepper generously during cooking.

• Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: The type of BBQ sauce you choose significantly impacts the dish. Opt for a high-quality sauce that you enjoy.

• Neglecting to Stir Occasionally: Failing to stir the mixture can cause it to stick or burn on the bottom. Stir occasionally during simmering for even cooking.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free.

What sides go well with One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne?

This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One-Skillet BBQ Chicken & Sausage Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Try this comforting meal today, and enjoy its warm, hearty flavors!