Okay, picture this: Is there It’s a crazy weeknight, you’re staring into the fridge wondering what on earth you’re going to pull. What is it like to have dinner together What is your go-to BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe? What are some of the comforting flavors of mac and cheese, but with a tangy BBQ twist? Is it easier to order online than takeout? What is my kids’ favorite dinner? What is the best way to enjoy a quick, easy, and delicious meal?

What is a BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet?

What’s a good combination of BBQ chicken and cheesy cheese? What is a pasta dish tossed in BBQ sauce that’s infused with BBQ flavor? What’s the best way to cook chicken in one skillet? What is the best thing about this BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet? What’s your favorite BBQ sauce? If you’re feeling ambitious (though, let’s be real, most nights I’m not! What is a quick, comforting, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights? It’s simple food elevated.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What is a good recipe for BBQ Chicken pasta? What I love about this is how incredibly flavorful it is. What is the best combination of cheese sauce and BBQ sauce? Is it the kind of dish that makes you want to lick the bowl clean?

Is it really easy to make? What are some of the best dinner recipes that can be made in 30 minutes? What is the lifesaver on those nights when you’re juggling a million things? Is it cost effective? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge. What are some of the best coffee shops in the world?

And let’s not forget the versatility! Can you adapt this BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet to suit your tastes and dietary needs? Gluten-free pasta, cheese, add different veggies, or try different BBQ sauces – the possibilities are endless. Is there an infinite number of possibilities I like Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese, but with a completely different flavor. If you like one, you’ll love the other! Basically, it’s a winner all around.

How do you make a BBQ chicken pasta skillet?

Quick Overview

How do I make this BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet? I’m going to start by cooking my pasta, then sautéing some chicken. What’s the best way to make a simple cheese sauce? In a skillet, cook the ingredients together. The Top with extra cheese and bake until bubbly. I’m telling you, it’s faster than waiting for pizza delivery, and way more satisfying! How do you add chopped red onions to a dish?

Ingredients

For the Pasta:
1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work great). Use your favorite! I’ve even used gluten-free pasta with great results. Make sure to cook al dente!

For the chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Can you use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time? How do I marinate chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before cooking?

For the Sauce:
How many tablespoons of butter do you
What is all-purpose flour? 3 tablespoons.
I’ve used almond milk and it’s delicious!
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend) or 1 cup melted mozzarella cheese.
1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite – I love a smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste.
1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional) (if desired)

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large oven-safe skillet (about 12 inches). I always forget this step, and then regret it!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. What are the best ways to cook al dente pasta in a skillet?

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet (or another pan) cook the chicken over medium heat until cooked through. Is it hard to Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Is it necessary to cook in batches for even browning?

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

What is the best way to melt butter in a skillet over medium heat? Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. What should I do if I’m going to make a thick sauce?

Step 5: Add Cheese and BBQ Sauce

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce until the cheese is melted. How do you make a creamy sauce? Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. What is the best BBQ sauce to serve?

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is well combined. What are some good ways to make sure pasta is coated with BBQ cheese sauce?

Step 7: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the pasta mixture. If the cheese is melted in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool. When a skillet is heated through, it is still I like to broil cheese for the last minute or two to get nice and browned.

Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the skillet cool before serving. Garnish with chopped red onion. What is the best way to serve a BBQ chicken pasta skillet right out of the oven?

What is the best way to serve it?

What is a complete meal in itself? What are some good ideas for a blog?

What is a good light lunch? A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness of the pasta.

For a heartier dinner: Serve with corn on the cob, coleslaw, or garlic bread.

For a potluck:What is the best way to serve BBQ chicken pasta?

What is my family tradition?I always serve this with cornbread and iced tea. What is the perfect comfort food to eat?

How do I make a perfectly cooked chicken pasta dish?

What are some of the best ways to make a chicken pasta skillet?

Chicken Prep:Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor. What makes a difference?

Cheese Sauce:How do you use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor? Is pre-shredded cheese a cellulose product?

Pasta:Don’t overcook pasta! Al dente is the way to go. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the skillet.

BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. A smoky sauce, a sweet sauce, or a spicy sauce – they all work well in this dish!

Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute the chicken with ground beef, Pulled Pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Feel free to add veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or corn to the skillet. I’ve tried adding diced tomatoes to give a zesty twist.

Baking Tips: If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, tent the skillet with foil. Don’t overbake the skillet, or the pasta will become dry. The cheese is melted, and the skillet is heated through.

Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. Every BBQ sauce is different, so you may need to add more or less salt and pepper.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled pasta skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta skillet. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the skillet to the refrigerator overnight or thaw it in the microwave.

Reheating Tips: To reheat, bake the pasta skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as evenly heated. Add a splash of milk or broth to the skillet before reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the pasta skillet, it’s best to add the cheese topping right before baking or reheating, so it stays nice and melty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. I’ve tried it with several brands and it works perfectly. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes be a little more delicate. Also, check the ingredients of your BBQ sauce to ensure it is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the skillet. It’s already cooked and seasoned, so it adds a ton of flavor to the dish. I especially love using the BBQ-flavored rotisserie chickens for an extra boost of BBQ goodness.

Can I add vegetables to this skillet?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to add some extra nutrients and flavor to this dish. Some great options include broccoli florets, bell peppers, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes. Just be sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the skillet, so they’re tender and delicious.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare this dish ahead of time! Simply assemble the skillet and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want to get ahead of the game.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

I personally love using cheddar cheese, but you can really use any cheese that melts well. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would all be delicious. Just be sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a pan. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and totally customizable. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. And honestly, it’s just plain fun to make! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to check out my Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake for another easy and comforting pasta dish. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know your variations. Happy cooking!