Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. This recipe offers a delightful blend of smoky BBQ flavors with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a truly irresistible homemade meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you to culinary success. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: shredded cheddar cheese, red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for your sauce.
Step 3: Create the BBQ Sauce
Stir in the BBQ sauce and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your BBQ sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly in the delicious BBQ sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to combine thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the BBQ Chicken Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for extra cheesy goodness.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Pasta:
- Use high-quality BBQ sauce: The flavor of your BBQ sauce will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente (slightly firm to the bite) for the best texture.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make this a more complete and healthy meal.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dish.
Variations:
- Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
- Baked BBQ Chicken Pasta: Transfer the cooked pasta and sauce to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This quick and easy BBQ Chicken Pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious and healthy meals. It's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. Enjoy!