Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something truly magical about the combination of BBQ sauce and cheese on a cold evening. It invokes a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings where laughter and stories blended effortlessly with the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this warmth is the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet. This one-pan wonder is as easy to prepare as it is delightful to savor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends spent with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share this recipe that promises to not only satisfy your taste buds but also create lasting memories around the dinner table.

The Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and an irresistible combination of tangy BBQ sauce and rich cheese come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a meal for a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Gathering the Ingredients

Before we dive into the preparation, let’s take a moment to gather our ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the rich, savory flavor profile of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 2 cups rigatoni pasta: This tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto the cheese and sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces, they add protein and heartiness to the dish, making it both filling and nutritious.

– 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite variety for the best flavor—whether it’s tangy, sweet, or smoky, the BBQ sauce is the star ingredient that ties everything together.

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This cheese brings a sharp, savory flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, adding depth to the dish.

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Known for its meltiness, mozzarella adds that desirable gooey texture that makes every bite a delight.

– 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor, olive oil is a healthy choice that also contributes to the richness of the dish.

– 1 small onion: Diced, it provides sweetness and depth, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.

– 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for that aromatic kick that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice adds a hint of smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce, rounding out the flavor profile.

– 1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors and bring out the best in each ingredient.

– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a touch of warmth and a subtle kick that balances the dish perfectly.

Preparing the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. The preparation of this dish is straightforward, allowing you to whip it up in no time. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside and cooked through. The smoky flavor from the paprika will infuse the chicken, enhancing its taste and making it a perfect match for the BBQ sauce.

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial, as the onion and garlic will add layers of flavor to the dish.

Once the chicken and aromatics are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in your chosen BBQ sauce, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, letting it bubble gently. This will give the chicken time to absorb the BBQ flavor while thickening the sauce slightly.

After the sauce has simmered, add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the savory BBQ sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Now comes the best part: the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the pasta mixture, allowing them to melt into the hot ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to help the cheese melt evenly. As the cheese begins to gooey and stretch, the delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist digging in.

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone reaching for seconds, and the simplicity of the preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Stay tuned for the next part, where we’ll dive into serving suggestions and tips for customizing this delightful dish to suit your taste!

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Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

– 8 oz rigatoni pasta

– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (adjust to taste)

– 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

– Optional: Sliced green onions for additional garnish

The Preparation Steps

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! The beauty of the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it comes together.

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and the rigatoni pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, you can multitask by sautéing the chicken. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and let it warm up. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed a lovely golden-brown color.

3. Add the Onions and Garlic: Once your chicken is looking good, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, allowing its fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.

4. Combine Pasta and BBQ Sauce: Next, it’s time to bring the pasta and BBQ sauce into the mix. Reduce the heat to medium-low, gently adding the cooked rigatoni and BBQ sauce to the skillet with the chicken, onion, and garlic. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with that savory BBQ goodness.

5. Melt the Cheese: Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the mixture. Stir gently but consistently until the cheese is fully melted, creating that gooey, creamy texture that envelops the pasta and chicken. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve: Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, sliced green onions. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the delightful combination of cheesy pasta and BBQ chicken—it’s a meal that will surely please everyone at the table.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Skillet Dish

To ensure your Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

– Choose the Right BBQ Sauce: Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or smoky BBQ sauce, pick one that you enjoy. The flavor of the sauce will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Opt for a high-quality sauce or even make your own for a more personalized touch.

– Cook the Chicken Thoroughly: Make sure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and best flavor. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve this easily.

– Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, be sure to follow the package instructions closely. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and will not hold up well in the dish.

– Mix and Match Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations! Gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can add unique flavors to your dish. Just ensure that the cheeses you select melt well.

– Add Vegetables for Nutrition: To increase the nutritional value of your meal, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or corn. Simply sauté them with the onions for added flavor and color.

– Make It Ahead of Time: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

The Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and drinks. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

– Fresh Green Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette. This will add a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy pasta.

– Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread can complement the flavors beautifully, providing a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creaminess of the pasta.

– Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and balance the richness of the dish. The acidity helps brighten the overall flavor profile.

– Wine Pairing: Consider pairing this dish with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing rosé. The acidity in the wine can cut through the richness of the cheese and BBQ sauce.

– Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for family dinners. Kids love the cheesy goodness, and it’s a great way to sneak in some protein and carbohydrates in a fun, appealing way.

Common Questions About Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is an excellent choice for this dish, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice depends on the BBQ sauce you use. Most BBQ sauces are mild, but if you prefer a spicy kick, look for a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred or dice the chicken and add it to the skillet, skipping the initial cooking step.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Certainly! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with beans, tofu, or grilled vegetables. Make sure to replace the BBQ sauce with a vegetarian-friendly option and use plant-based cheese for the melting component.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

The Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. With its creamy cheese, tender chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce, it’s a recipe that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. The simplicity of preparation and the opportunity for customization make it a fantastic go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Whether you choose to serve it with a fresh salad, some garlic bread, or just on its own, you can be sure that this dish will be a hit. Don’t forget to try out different variations and make it your own! Share your experiences and variations in the comments below, and happy cooking!