Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that packs a punch in flavor without the fuss, then this one pot barbecue chicken pasta is just what you need. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver for busy home cooks like us! You can whip this up in about 30 minutes, and the best part? You’ll only have one pot to clean up afterward—how great is that? The tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation. So, let’s dive in and make some magic happen!
Ingredients for One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering one pot barbecue chicken pasta:
- 2 cups penne pasta: This tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the flavorful sauce. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free penne if you prefer!
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed: I love using chicken breast for its lean protein. Make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and absorbs all that barbecue goodness.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version! The sweetness and tanginess of the sauce are what really elevate this dish.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This adds depth of flavor to the pasta. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen: This little pop of sweetness pairs perfectly with the smoky barbecue sauce. If using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it first!
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced: Any color works here—red, yellow, or green! They add a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This is one of my go-to seasonings! It adds a warm, savory kick without the fuss of chopping garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for bringing out all the flavors. Remember, you can always adjust them later!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I like to use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty, gooey finish. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Once you’ve got all these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to make some delicious one pot barbecue chicken pasta magic happen!
How to Prepare One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s get down to business! This one pot barbecue chicken pasta is super simple to prepare, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large pot and toss in the cubed chicken. Add in that delicious barbecue sauce, chicken broth, corn, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated.
- Now, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. It’ll start bubbling, and oh my goodness, the aroma will be heavenly!
- Once it’s boiling, it’s time to add the penne pasta. Stir it in well so the pasta is submerged in that flavorful sauce.
- Next, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick!
- When the pasta is tender and cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Grab that shredded cheese and stir it in until it melts into a creamy, gooey delight.
- And just like that, your one pot barbecue chicken pasta is ready to serve! Dish it up warm and enjoy the smiles all around!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one pot barbecue chicken pasta is truly a game changer in the kitchen! Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Quick preparation: You can have this delicious dish on the table in just about 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Minimal cleanup: With only one pot to wash, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal!
- Flavorful combination: The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta, giving you a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.
- Kid-friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This one pot barbecue chicken pasta isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with satisfying goodness. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check your labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy all this deliciousness without the guilt!
Tips for Success
To make your one pot barbecue chicken pasta truly shine, I’ve got a few handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way. First off, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of barbecue sauce based on your taste preferences. If you like it a bit sweeter, go for a sweeter sauce, or if you want a smoky kick, try a chipotle barbecue sauce!
Another tip is to keep an eye on the pasta while it’s cooking. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a little extra chicken broth if it looks too thick. You want that perfect saucy consistency! And speaking of consistency, make sure to mix in the cheese while the pasta is still hot—this will help it melt beautifully and create that creamy texture we all crave.
Lastly, feel free to play around with the veggies! Throw in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference and keep your meals exciting!
Variations of One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
One of the best things about this one pot barbecue chicken pasta is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to match your tastes or what you have in the fridge. For a twist, try swapping out the chicken for ground turkey or even shrimp for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders, too!
When it comes to vegetables, the sky’s the limit! Toss in some diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach for extra color and nutrients. You could also add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne for a little heat if you like things spicy. And don’t forget about the cheese—mix it up with pepper jack for a kick or go for a creamy gouda for something different. These variations not only keep things fresh but also let you make this dish your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, this one pot barbecue chicken pasta keeps well, and you’ll want to savor every last bite! To store your delicious creation, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly to prevent any moisture from sneaking in.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend reheating them on the stovetop for the best flavor and texture. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot to loosen things up, and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick fix—just cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Trust me, it’ll taste almost as good as the first time!
FAQ about One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is my go-to for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas may require slightly different lengths of time to cook.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps as usual. It’s a great way to save time during busy weeknights!
What if I don’t have barbecue sauce?
No worries! You can substitute barbecue sauce with a homemade version using ketchup, vinegar, and some spices, or even use a different sauce like teriyaki or sweet chili sauce. Get creative!
Can I make this recipe spicy?
For sure! If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to kick things up a notch!
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pot, and heat it over low, stirring occasionally. This keeps everything nice and moist! You can also use the microwave, just cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
One Pot Barbecue Chicken Pasta: Quick Comforting Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and tasty one pot barbecue chicken pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, corn, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the penne pasta and stir well.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust barbecue sauce to taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot barbecue chicken pasta, easy pasta recipe, chicken pasta, one pot meal